Sutton Council has invested £14bn in order to create ‘the world’s leading hub for cancer research and treatment’.
The council has purchased more than 22,000 square metres of land for the London Cancer Hub, a partnership between the London Borough of Sutton and The Institute of Cancer Research.
The partners have been working closely with the local Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust – owner of a substantial amount of unused land on the site.
The £14m purchase is the first step in what is expected to be a £1bn project, which will be predominantly funded through the private sector.
The London Cancer Hub is intended to be a global centre for cancer innovation, bringing together scientists, doctors, life-science companies and a new science-specialist school.
‘Sutton Council’s investment in The London Cancer Hub demonstrates our commitment to the borough and the future prosperity of local children and families,’ said Cllr Ruth Dombey, leader of Sutton Council.
‘The London Cancer Hub can become a global centre for cancer innovation, providing state-of-the-art facilities and delivering real benefits for patients. It will create new green spaces, community facilities and well-paid, highly skilled opportunities for local people.’
Professor Paul Workman, chief executive of The Institute of Cancer Research, said: ‘This investment is an important first step towards making The London Cancer Hub a reality.
‘Our ambition is to create a truly world-class cancer research hub, and today’s purchase of land provides the space to expand and enhance life-science facilities on the site.’
