GlaxoSmithKline in Montrose is reviewing its decision to offer surplus land and facilities for sale.
Earlier this year, it decided to concentrate its manufacturing and storage on a tighter site and, as a result, the factory was looking for a buyer for some of its warehousing and a substantial area of open ground.
Although the GSK plant continued to be a key factor in the local economy, the marketing of land and facilities that were surplus to requirements reflected a gradual contraction of its presence in the town.
A company spokesman said at the weekend that since its original decision to look for appropriate buyers, the factory had expanded its range of products. It is also carrying out feasibility studies into alternative energy options which may require space within the factory boundary.
With an eye to rising energy costs and the environment, GSK has commissioned two studies into alternative energy opportunities. They indicate that wind turbine and marine power generation technologies could help the site become ‘carbon neutral’ and more cost effective.
The proposals could be contentious since wind turbines at the site would dominate the mouth of the South Esk and any wave power development off the coast opposite the factory might impact on shipping.
The company has already held preliminary discussions with Angus Council officers to share initial thinking.
The possible investment in wind and wave power could see surplus energy being created and opening the potential for it to be supplied outwith the site.
Meanwhile the site is investing over £2 million on installing combined heat and power technology. An engine unit which generates electricity and provides ‘free’ heat as a by-product will cut energy bills by an estimated £350,000 a year and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
The first unit has been installed and a second may follow next year.