hVIVO PLC has unveiled plans for a new consolidated challenge trial facility at the life sciences hub in Canary Wharf, London.
The expansion, largely funded by hVIVO clients, reflects a growing order book and increasing demand for its human challenge trial services, the company said in a statement.
Comprising a comprehensive site, quarantine bedrooms, advanced laboratories and an outpatient unit, the facility will contain 50 quarantine beds, with potential expansion capabilities to accommodate up to 70 quarantine beds in the future.
hVIVO added the cost per bed will remain similar to the current facilities, which will close in 2024, but all quarantine beds will now be a single floor within one building.
The on-site outpatient unit will also facilitate Phase II and III field trials.
Construction of the first phase is scheduled for the first quarter of 2024 with the full site to open three months later.
Yamin Khan, hVIVO’s chief executive, added: “The new facility will also allow us to conduct a greater number of trials concurrently across various challenge models enabling the company to maintain a higher level of capacity throughout the year.
“Furthermore, we will expand our laboratory capability, facilitating the broadening of our service offerings.
“Consolidating our operations into a single location will improve operational efficiencies, ultimately enhancing our profit margins.”