New ‘state-of-the-art’ cancer facility to be built after Manchester hospital fire
A new “state-of-the-art” cancer research facility will be built at the Christie Hospital in Manchester, on a site which was devastated by fire.
The blaze started on the roof of the Paterson building, home to the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, on April 26 last year, causing significant structural damage.
Around 300 scientists and support staff have been temporarily relocated to Alderley Park in Cheshire as a result.
The multimillion-pound development “embraces a great opportunity to transform the disaster of the Paterson building fire into a bold and exciting future”, the Christie said.
Researchers and clinicians will be integrated in the building, to develop new team approaches to science.
The project will be led by the Christie, on behalf of the Manchester Cancer Research Centre, a partnership between the hospital, the University of Manchester and Cancer Research UK.
Planning is under way to secure formal approval and it is hoped the building will be completed in early 2021.
Sir Harpal Kumar, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said: “Manchester researchers and scientists in our institute and centre have faced a tough 11 months following the devastating fire.
“But we are now delighted to announce proposals to build this state-of-the-art facility which will create exciting opportunities for breakthroughs and future discoveries in cancer research.”
Roger Spencer, chief executive of the Christie NHS Foundation Trust, said it was a “hugely exciting time”.
He added: “We have an opportunity to create a truly unique research centre integrated within the hospital with scientists, researchers and consultants all working together in one place, developing and shaping treatment and research from basic scientific discoveries through to patient care.
“It will ensure our patients receive access to the latest personalised and innovative cancer treatments alongside world-class clinical and scientific expertise.”
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