WHP appointed to build a GMP manufacturing facility to manufacture synthetic DNA
WHP has been appointed “Principal Contractor” by Touchlight, to design and build a GMP facility for the manufacture of its proprietary synthetic DNA technology, dbDNA. As part of the overall project, WHP will refurbish and convert landmark Victorian buildings forming part of Touchlight’s campus in Hampton to accommodate the new facility.Touchlight (www.touchlight.com) is a UK founded, award-winning biotechnology company utilising its innovative DNA technology platform, for the development and manufacture of new therapeutic products and treatments, both for itself and third parties through the offering of its CDMO business, Touchlight DNA Services.
Multi-disciplinary engineering company WHP won this prestigious contract for the design and build of a synthetic DNA manufacturing facility and refurbishment of key parts of the landmark campus. This engagement involves the total renovation of an existing Victorian Grade II listed building, incorporating the design and construction of cleanrooms as part of a GMP manufacturing facility. The comprehensive build programme involves the provision of a complete furniture and mechanical fit-out, air handling unit installation and ductwork assembly, domestic pipework, and full electrical systems integration for the facility.
WHP acting as Principal Contractor for the Touchlight project, utilising WHP’s fully integrated in-house skill set, for the detailed design, build, commissioning and validation of the GMP qualifying facility. The design includes full 3D building information modelling, together with clean room architecture, HVAC, mechanical, electrical, process and critical utilities systems.
This time critical project requires WHP’s market leading expertise of this specialist construction sector where attention to detail, functionality and in depth knowledge of relevant legislation is of paramount importance.
Ian Lichfield, Chief Executive of WHP, said: “This is another major success for WHP. We are delighted to be appointed by such a prestigious client to deliver this strategically important project. WHP continues to win new and exciting contracts which is testament to the experience, expertise and added value WHP brings to its clients. This project is a welcome addition to WHP’s client portfolio of Biopharmaceutical “vector” manufacturers and comes hot on the heels of the viral vector facility WHP designed and built for Oxford Biomedica in 2020 which has played a critical role in the UK’s Covid-19 vaccination programme.”.
Jonny Ohlson, Executive Chairman of Touchlight, said: “Touchlight was founded 14 years ago based on a belief that DNA was destined to underpin the next generation of medicines, and these have now truly come of age. The expansion of our Hampton facility is integral to our mission to support this genetic medicine revolution, meeting the explosion in demand for DNA by providing globally unrivalled manufacturing capacity.”.