Fire-hit Christie building to be replaced by state-of-the-art cancer centre

A multi-million pound cancer research facility is to be built over the site of the Paterson building, which suffered severe fire damage last year.

Over 300 scientists and support staff, who were displaced by the fire, will be moving into the new building.

The development will be led by The Christie on behalf of the Manchester Cancer Research Centre (MCRC).

Cancer Research UK Chief Executive, Sir Harpal Kumar, 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 announced proposals to build this state-of-the-art facility which will create exciting opportunities for breakthroughs and future discoveries in cancer research."

Both Manchester Cancer Research Centre and The Christie told Key 103 that the new facility will be a great opportunity to transform the tragedy of the fire into a better future.

Manchester is already known worldwide as a leading centre for investigating different methods to target cancerous cells.

It is how hoped the new facility will help the cancer centre become one of the top five for clincial cancer research.

The new research centre will also carry out research across Greater Manchester, to tackle cancer in the region.

Roger Spencer, Chief Executive of The Christie, said: "This is a hugely exciting time for The Christie,"

"We have an opportunity to create a truly unique research centre integrated within the hospital with the scientists, researchers and consultants all working together in one place, developing and shaping treatment and research from basic scientific discoveries through to patient care."

Planning for the new building is underway and it is hoped to be finished in early 2021.