Novartis U.K. will initiate consultation on proposals to close its Horsham site in West Sussex, affecting up to 371 employees, but subject to an employee consultation process and final U.K. board approval.

Novartis said it understands that this will be a difficult time for potentially affected employees, their families and the wider Horsham community, given the links the company has in the area. Novartis will work closely with associates, contractors, suppliers and local stakeholder groups to make the process as straightforward and smooth as possible.

This potential restructure of operations at the Horsham site is the result of a global review of research operations and realignment of other global R&D sites. The proposals are part of the company's ongoing efforts to align resources to better serve patients and customers in a challenging healthcare marketplace.

Separately, the U.K. pharmaceuticals division based at Frimley, Surrey, will be announcing the proposed withdrawal of marketing and sales support for products in diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the U.K. All these products will still be available to customers and patients in the U.K. with no change in supply or accessibility. This may affect 72 employees, mostly field based.