Global filtration specialist opens £14m Lancs factory
The former Sofidel site off Caton Road in Lancaster has been reworked to provide a 74,000 sq ft manufacturing facility for GVS Filter Technology.
Built by Conlon Construction, the £14m scheme saw parts of the 260,000 sq ft Sofidel unit knocked down while other elements were refurbished.
All of GVS’s 200 UK staff have now relocated from the firm’s previous UK base in Morecambe. GVS manufactures highly technical filtration systems for healthcare, life science, safety, and automotive sectors.
Miguel Aranda, managing director of GVS Filter Technology UK, said: “The new space has strengthened connection, creativity, and well-being across the business.
“We’re immensely grateful for the way the team brought our vision to life and supported the health, happiness, and productivity of our people.”
The new UK head office had been due to open in spring 2025.
Darren Lee, commercial director of Conlon Construction, said: “Delivering GVS’s new, purpose-built UK headquarters in Lancaster – and facilitating its relocation from Morecambe – has been an exciting and significant project.
“It strengthens Lancashire’s economy, shows global companies that the region is a hub for investment and innovation, and proves what can be achieved when local expertise comes together. We’re proud to deliver a facility that sets a benchmark for the county and reinforces Lancashire’s standing in the global business community.”
As well as Conlon Construction and architect Cassidy + Ashton, the project team includes GVS, Sleater & Watson, DRB Environmental Design, Ryder Landscape Consultants, Hydrock, RSK, Red Acoustics, and Bowland Tree Consultancy.
Alistair Baines, chairman, Cassidy + Ashton said: “Cassidy + Ashton has a track record of designing some of the most ambitious and innovative industrial developments across the North West in recent years and supporting the progression of these through to construction with our expert planning team.
“GVS Filters Technology UK’s new facility is a real statement of intent from an innovative, growing company and a fantastic investment in the Lancashire economy.”
To find out more about the project, search for application reference number 23/00063/FUL on Lancaster City Council’s planning portal.
