Then what makes them think now is the right time to start construction? Why didn’t they begin this process earlier? Why only now?
You didn't ask me however....Perhaps due to cash constraints, they were waiting on official approval (we learn in the next few days??). Once approval for GBM the partnership deal is final AND AS is approved for moving forward with Acquisition(s) AND we need to have increase manufacturing capabilities for subsequent approval for all solid tumors.
Think about the NDA with Yorkville!!!!! IMO, that's a telltale sign!!!!!!
Who knows what the delay was for . May be they didn't have surety of approval till few months ago . Plus waiting for construction /installation/ validation etc will take 6-12 months. Why would a company wait for it to at least get MHRA approval . Approval/validation will help company raise money at much higher valuation and on much better terms and be able to apply to other RA's . Revised NICE appraisal submissions and NICE approval can always happen later next year . Makes absolutely no strategic/financial sense to delay/hold off on getting MHRA approval ( even without NICE appraisal) with artisan method in the mean time in my opinion . It can put company on much better footing to get funding to start other trials/construction/ other RA submissions.
Because they anticipate approval...which really gets to the two possible answers to the key remaining question. Construction=requisite for approval. Or, Consturction=in anticipation of approval.