The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has announced the launch of a new digital hub in Leeds, reinforcing its long-term commitment to driving innovation and expanding its presence across the UK.
Leeds was chosen for its growing reputation as a digital health leader, supported by a strong academic ecosystem and a thriving technology community. The new hub is set to deepen regional partnerships, attract skilled talent, and stimulate local investment—positioning the city as a central player in shaping the future of healthcare regulation.
The initiative is part of the MHRA’s broader strategy to enhance its digital capabilities, increase regulatory agility, and deliver improved outcomes for patients, the public, and the life sciences industry. The hub will foster closer collaboration with NHS organisations, digital health networks, and academic institutions across the country.
This expansion also supports the UK Government’s Places for Growth programme, which aims to decentralise public sector operations and ensure more equitable distribution of expertise and opportunities across the UK.
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting commented:
“There is a global tech revolution in healthcare unfolding, and Yorkshire will help our country lead it.
This isn’t just about creating new jobs across the region – it’s about strengthening a city that’s already leading in digital health.
Driving forward digital transformation through our Plan for Change will mean faster research, smarter inspections, and better patient outcomes. Leeds, with its world-class universities and strong NHS footprint, is the perfect place to fuse innovation with regulatory expertise.”
Lawrence Tallon, Chief Executive of the MHRA, added:
“We want the regulation of health technologies to keep pace with innovation. As part of our commitment to being a truly national regulator, we are establishing a new base in one of the UK’s leading tech hubs.
This Leeds hub will bring our regulatory expertise closer to the people, partners, and innovations that drive progress—particularly across the North of England.
It will play a vital role in shaping the future of regulation, helping us harness digital tools to meet patient needs, support the NHS, and fuel life sciences innovation across the country.”
