Plans in for ‘world leading’ Longbridge R&D hub
Birmingham-based Sterling Pharmaceuticals has lodged long-awaited plans for a best-in-class manufacturing facility on the former MG Rover site at Longbridge West.
The proposals include a 67,000 sq ft research and development facility, earmarked for the two-acre plot in South Birmingham it snapped up for an undisclosed sum in 2024.
The firm says it’s outgrown its current research, development, and manufacturing facilities in Moseley, with the development of expanded facilities on Bristol Road South set to help the firm scale up production and developing a wider range of products.
Plans to develop the site have been in the works for several years, with the scheme included in a keynote speech by then-chancellor Rachel Reeves during last year’s regional investment summit in Birmingham.
Sterling says the proposed development will serve as its new headquarters and principal operational base, with the scheme set to include research labs, manufacturing and warehouse facilities, and offices.
Supporting documents submitted with the scheme say the proposals, if approved, will form a “keystone” for Longbridge West, creating a world leading manufacturing, research, and development centre.
If approved, the facility would become a ‘world leading’ R&D hub in Birmingham. Credit: Glancy Nicholls Architects
“The development represents a major positive investment in the area, providing a modern high technology facility for Sterling Pharmaceutical,” said a planning statement published with the proposals.
“It will support the expansion of an established West Midlands business and deliver high quality employment opportunities across a range of roles.
“The proposals represent a sustainable, well‑designed, and policy‑compliant development that will act as a catalyst for further investment and regeneration within West Longbridge.
The gateway site at West Longbridge forms part of the former MG Rover manufacturing complex, once the largest car manufacturing operation in Europe, which ceased operations in April 2005.
Glancy Nicholls Architects have provided designs for the scheme.
Plans and documents relating to the application can be found on Birmingham City Council’s planning portal, using reference: 2026/01723/PA
