A taskforce setup by local MP Alan Mak to work on issues surrounding the wind down of Pfizer’s packaging and distribution base in Havant has committed to finding a buyer for the site.
The consensus was reached at a meeting organised and chaired by Mr Mak to discuss the decision taken by the pharmaceutical company to leave its New Lane base by 2020. It was attended by representatives from Pfizer, Solent LEP, the Department for International Trade and Havant Borough Council.
Around 270 people are currently employed at the site and it is hoped that by finding a buyer the site can continue being used in the life sciences sector.
The site will remain at full capacity. It is hoped any company which comes in to buy the site could retain some of the existing workforce.
Mr Mak said: “From the moment Pfizer announced they intended to wind down their Havant site, I have been working hard to find the best solution for employees and the local economy. I have organised a taskforce made up of the key players, and I’m pleased everyone is working together to help Pfizer find a buyer for their site. Havant remains an excellent place to do business, and I’ll be delivering that message to any business thinking of taking over the site.”
The taskforce has agreed to meet once a quarter for updates on the situation.
Sukhi Aujla, Havant site lead, Pfizer said: “Our priority is to support colleagues affected by the decision. We are also committed to working alongside local stakeholders to try and sell the site as an ongoing pharmaceutical operation.”
Photo caption: Alan Mak MP with former Pfizer site lead Carole Johnson, Cllr Tim Pike and Solent LEP Chief Executive Anne-Marie Mountifield at the taskforce meeting