A groundbreaking new cancer centre at Cheltenham General Hospital is one step closer to reality after securing crucial planning approval from Cheltenham Borough Council.
This state-of-the-art facility, estimated to cost £12 million, will provide patients with modern clinical and treatment spaces, enhanced access to digital consultations, a dedicated support centre for patients and their families, as well as tranquil therapeutic gardens to aid recovery.
The project has already seen tremendous community support, with over 10,000 people contributing more than £9.8 million through Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity’s Big Space Cancer Appeal. These funds have been instrumental in driving the development forward.
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Kevin McNamara, chief executive of Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Reaching this significant milestone with planning approval is a moment to celebrate. It means we are closer than ever to delivering a world-class cancer centre that will greatly improve services for our patients.”
He added that extensive consultations involving more than a thousand patients, carers, and members of the public helped tailor the plans to what the community values most. Clinical teams have also been heavily involved in designing the facility to ensure it meets patient needs.
In addition to the new building, upgrades to the existing oncology facilities will form the project’s second phase, further enhancing cancer care in the region.
A supporter of the appeal, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their personal experience of breast cancer treatment in 2023. While praising the compassionate care received, they recalled the constraints of the current facilities, describing the consultation rooms as “small and dark,” and emphasised the importance of providing staff with better working environments.
“The planning approval is a huge step forward,” they said. “Patients receive excellent care, but we must ensure that both patients and clinicians have a modern, light, and spacious environment that supports their wellbeing.”
Community fundraising remains vital to complete the centre. Last year’s Lions at Large sculpture trail raised £370,000, while upcoming events such as Run Cheltenham and the charity’s inaugural international challenge to Mount Kilimanjaro continue to draw support.
Richard Smith, associate director at Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity, highlighted the impact: “One in two people face cancer in their lifetime, and annually 5,000 local patients begin treatment in current facilities. Our community’s generosity is bringing us closer to transforming cancer care for all.”
Donations from challenges, events, trusts, and gifts in wills remain crucial. The charity expresses deep gratitude to everyone who has contributed so far and encourages ongoing support to make the new cancer centre a reality.
To contribute to The Big Space Cancer Appeal, please visit the charity’s website.