THE public will get a chance to find out more about GSK’s plans for a new factory in Ulverston at a series of exhibitions later this month.

Visitors will be able to look at the current designs and layouts for the proposed factory and speak to GSK staff and planning experts.

The pharmaceutical giant, which has had a factory in Ulverston since 1948, announced plans for a new biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility in 2012.

It will be the company’s first new factory in the UK for almost 40 years.

GSK’s biopharm leader Pat McIver said: “Our new factory will be at the heart of an exciting and growing area of GSK’s global business and the medicines made here will benefit millions of people around the world. It will be a place for long-term high value employment and there will also be opportunities for other local businesses.

“We know many people have been eager to find out more about the factory and we’re very excited to be able to reveal our plans. We’re also looking forward to talking to local people and getting their feedback before we submit an outline planning application.”

Around £350m has been earmarked for the construction of the biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility. Over the lifetime of the investments it is expected that it could more than double the 250 people working at the site.

The public exhibition dates are: Coronation Hall, County Road, Ulverston, February 20, from 5pm-8pm; and February 22, from 12pm - 4pm GSK Sports & Social Club, North Lonsdale Road, Ulverston, February 26, from 5pm-8pm; and March 1 from 12pm - 4pm Copies of the masterplan for the new factory and a feedback form will also be available on the GSK Ulverston website www.GSK-Ulverston.co.uk