Works on the new £35 million cancer centre for the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle, on which international property and construction consultancy Gleeds is appointed as cost advisor, have begun on site following an official brick-laying ceremony.
The commencement of the build phase of the new facility, situated next to the main hospital, follows the recent demolition of the redundant 1970s infirmary tower block. Once complete, the two-storey structure will allow the North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust to bring all its core oncology services under one roof, while remaining connected to the Cumberland Infirmary for the benefit of those patients requiring additional treatment.
The state-of-the-art centre will house a chemotherapy day unit, comprising 15 chairs and three single bedrooms, two medical linear accelerator (LINAC) radiotherapy machines and a CT scanner suite, as well as consultation and examination rooms, and clinical planning areas. In addition to the extensive medical facilities, there will also be a small cafe area for use by patients, visitors and staff.
Commenting on the appointment Andrew McNulty, director at Gleeds responsible for the scheme, said: “North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust has shown a huge commitment to improving the experience of those touched by cancer with this new building. It will not only ensure that patients benefit from the latest equipment but will also immeasurably improve the environment in which they receive the treatment they need.”
“Gleeds has extensive experience in the healthcare sector and I am delighted to be playing a role on this incredibly worthwhile project” he went on to say.
Suzanne Stanley, radiotherapy services manager at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, added: “This is a landmark moment for the project and we’re really excited that we’ll be able to provide such wonderful facilities to further enhance cancer services that is truly patient focused here at Cumberland Infirmary.
“The new building will be state-of-the-art but it will also be homely. We want to make sure that when people come for their cancer treatment they are receiving it in a relaxing and comfortable environment, an environment that can put them at ease at what is often a frightening time.”
Completion of the new centre is scheduled for summer 2021.