Major Four Oaks Pharmaceutical Project Canceled

FOUR OAKS — After weeks of speculation, a public annexation meeting, and mounting anticipation, a major pharmaceutical development that promised to transform Four Oaks has officially been canceled, according to sources close to the project.

The proposed facility—widely believed to have been under consideration by global pharmaceutical leader Novo Nordisk—was expected to bring nearly 500 high-paying jobs to Four Oaks. The project had focused on a 70-acre site along NC Highway 96 South, between Spring Lake Road and Keen Road, near Ashley Furniture.

In a significant step toward making the development possible, the Four Oaks Town Council had unanimously approved the voluntary annexation of the property on September 15. The move granted the site access to municipal water and sewer services, a necessary step for large-scale industrial use. The land, owned by Johnnie Johnson and Four Oaks Farms LLC, was seen as a prime location, especially given its proximity to Johnston Community College’s Workforce Development Center, which opened this fall on nearby Boyette Road.

An official announcement never materialized. Now, sources confirm to the Johnston County Report that the project has been shelved indefinitely and will not proceed.

Chris Johnson, Johnston County Economic Development Director, told The Johnston County Report, “Today’s fast-evolving global landscape, all companies are continually reevaluating their strategies for sustainable expansion. Economic development is a delicate endeavor, one that demands foresight, resilience, and strong partnerships.”

“Thanks to the Town of Four Oaks’ strategic decision to pre-zone multiple sites for light industrial use several years ago, the region has become a magnet for industrial investment. Dozens of clients and projects have expressed interest, drawn by the town’s readiness and forward-thinking approach. We are proud to collaborate with property owners and local communities to ensure sites are primed for development and positioned for long-term success.”

“The recent opening of the Advanced Manufacturing Training Facility marks a transformative milestone for Four Oaks. This initiative not only strengthens the County’s position as a center for innovation—it also expands the local tax base, easing the financial burden on residents. Most importantly, it paves the way for high-quality, well-paying jobs that will empower our citizens and shape the future workforce,” Mr. Johnson said Tuesday.

The reasons for the cancellation have not been publicly disclosed. It remains unclear whether the decision was due to changes in corporate strategy, logistical challenges, or local concerns. Some area residents had expressed worries about the impact of industrial development on traffic, noise, and the rural character of the community.

With the project no longer moving forward, Town of Four Oaks officials are expected to revisit the future use of the annexed property.

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This story has been updated