Introduction

Unveiling the secrets behind the UK's first fully licensed medicinal cannabis factory, this £10 million facility is setting new standards in production to satisfy a rapidly growing demand for legal cannabis. Since its legalization for medical use, the UK has seen an unprecedented surge in prescriptions, with one company determined to elevate production to meet this need head-on.

Security and Operations

To maintain top-notch security for this "secret" site, the BBC was granted exclusive access, contingent on keeping the location confidential. Upon arrival, we navigated through rigorous identity checks and advanced security measures that included two locked gates and a bulletproof entrance. The team is heavily fortified, comprising ex-military personnel, underscoring the sensitive nature of their operation.

James Leavesley, co-founder of the facility named Dalgety, elaborates on the security measures: "We have hundreds of infrared CCTV cameras monitoring the entire property." This meticulous attention to detail ensures compliance and safety as they pioneer the first integrated facility in the UK capable of growing, packaging, and distributing cannabis directly to pharmacies—all in one location.

The Journey of James Leavesley

James's journey into cannabis cultivation began six years ago. With a background in agriculture, he shifted his focus toward this burgeoning market after the 2018 legalization of medicinal cannabis in the UK. A survey suggested that approximately 1.8 million UK residents were seeking cannabis from illicit sources for medical relief, prompting James and his partners to enter this volatile yet promising market.

Collaboration and Expertise

Collaboration was key; after discussing their ambitions over dinner with a family friend who shared their interest in cannabis, Dalgety was born. But they recognized the necessity of seasoned expertise. Their solution came from Canada, where recreational cannabis has been legal since 2018. They recruited Brady Green, a renowned grower with a proven track record in constructing licensed cannabis facilities.

Brady's expertise has been vital in not only designing the intricate setup but also in developing robust security systems. "We have varied access points strictly controlling who can access certain areas," James emphasizes. This concern for security is paramount, considering the financial commitment of £8 million to £10 million required to establish this operation.

Navigating Legal Requirements

The process of legally growing cannabis involves navigating complex licensing requirements from the Home Office and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Despite the challenges, Dalgety's leadership foresaw the vast market potential, especially as demand accelerates across countries like Canada, the US, and Germany.

Cultivation and Production

In January 2023, Dalgety received their Home Office license, and cultivation commenced in April, yielding genetically identical clones that needed rigorous testing to ensure consistent quality. Over 600 product samples were evaluated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

Inside the Facility

As we tour the facility, the expectation of entering a massive room saturating with the scent of cannabis was quickly replaced by a sequence of clinical corridors and laboratories. Inside, the conditions were meticulously controlled; custom lighting and artificial ventilation prevented the formation of microclimates that could disrupt growth.

Life Cycle of Cannabis

James details that the life cycle for cannabis cultivation spans approximately 12 to 14 weeks, including a carefully managed drying process. "It’s a blend of agricultural science and medical precision," he explains as we step into a lab where staff members don protective gear to prepare the flowers for packaging.

Milestone Achievements

In September 2023, Dalgety achieved a significant milestone by securing their selling license. James outlines the challenge of obtaining both licenses as a barrier deterring others from pursuing a similar integrated model. "It combines two industries—agriculture and pharmaceuticals—making it unique," he states confidently.

Meeting Demand

By January, Dalgety aims to be capable of delivering enough products for 4,000 prescriptions monthly, bolstered by partnerships with clinics and prescribers. Currently, around 50,000 patients utilize private prescriptions for medicinal cannabis, though access remains limited through the NHS due to restrictive regulations and the necessity for prior treatments.

Personal Stories and Societal Shift

Laura, a Nottinghamshire teacher, reflects on her personal connection to medicinal cannabis. Previously reliant on the black market for relief from chronic pain, she transitioned to legal sources once they became available. Although cannabis stigma persists, Laura finds solace in the quality and safety of legally obtained products, illustrating a larger societal shift towards accepting medical cannabis as a legitimate treatment.

“Using cannabis is still something I keep private,” she admits, highlighting the ongoing challenges of acceptance. “But I can’t imagine my life without it. If I skip my medication, the pain returns almost immediately.”

Conclusion

As the UK navigates the complexities of the medicinal cannabis landscape, Dalgety stands poised at the forefront, merging agriculture and healthcare to bring transformative options to patients. The stakes are significant, but so too are the possibilities—for patients seeking relief and for a burgeoning industry on the cusp of legitimacy.