Medical tech firm gets £1.7m grant for expansion

A life sciences manufacturer has been given £1.7m of government funding for expanding its facilities to develop medical technology using ceramic-based materials.

Biocomposites, based at Keele's Science and Innovation Park, will use the funding to increase production of its flagship product Stimulan, which is used to help treat infections.

Bosses at the campus say the firm has become an integral part of the community over the past two decades – including hiring Keele University students and collaborating with the university's researchers.

Vice-chancellor Kevin Shakesheff said he was delighted the firm had been awarded the grant.

"Businesses like Biocomposites are a great example of the high-value businesses and jobs here in north Staffordshire that make the Midlands such an economically significant region," he said.

"I am proud that they've chosen Keele's Science and Innovation Park as the perfect place to grow their operations."

Stephen Liptrot, group operations director at Biocomposites, said the money secured a "bright future" for the firm and was essential to help the firm keep pace with customer demand.

"By reimagining the way we manufacture, improving our working and welfare environment, and investing in cutting-edge technology, we are ensuring that our primary manufacturing site in Keele is strategically positioned to support our ambitious growth plans," he said.

Follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.