Liverpool City Region has formally launched its Life Sciences Investment Zone following agreement with the UK Government, enabling the first stage of funding to move into delivery.
The launch was announced on 11 April 2024 after a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Combined Authority and the government. The programme is supported by a ten-year funding commitment of up to £160 million.
The initial Investment Zone plan identifies 21 projects intended to develop facilities for research and innovation, provide support to businesses and strengthen the skills needed by the life sciences sector.
Key locations include Liverpool's Knowledge Quarter and Sci-Tech Daresbury, alongside other centres of research, manufacturing and business development across the region. The programme aims to build on existing university, health and industrial expertise.
Regional partners estimate that the full portfolio could help attract up to £800 million of investment and support 8,000 jobs. These figures describe the programme's ambition, rather than outcomes achieved at launch.
The agreement provides a framework for assessing and funding individual projects as they progress.