Planning permission granted for new Sussex Cancer Centre at Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton
The green light has been given for a new five-storey Sussex Cancer Centre, set to expand services and improve cancer care in Sussex
Planning permission has been granted for a major development at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, paving the way for a new Sussex Cancer Centre. This state-of-the-art, five-storey building will significantly expand services to meet the growing demand for cancer care in the region.
Dr Sarah Westwell, consultant clinical oncologist and chief of cancer services at University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "This is truly momentous news for our patients, their families, and all the dedicated staff who work tirelessly to provide the best possible care."
“With the sobering statistic that 1 in 2 people are now expected to face a cancer diagnosis in our lifetime, this development is essential to enable us to deliver excellent care every time for the growing numbers of patients requiring our care."
The new centre will increase current cancer care capacity three-fold, reduce waiting times, and offer a more compassionate environment for patients. It will provide significantly more outpatient treatment spaces, an increase in inpatient beds (all with en-suite rooms), and a new acute cancer assessment unit, allowing many patients to be treated as outpatients rather than in the main A&E department.
The centre will also act as a specialist tertiary hub for Sussex, offering services closer to home through a hub and spoke model with other hospitals and partners.
Dr Anna Olsson-Brown, consultant medical oncologist and clinical director of clinical cancer care, said: “We know that a cancer diagnosis impacts every aspect of a person's life. It's not just about treating the disease; it's about supporting the whole person."
The design of the centre will include spaces filled with natural light, views of the sea and green areas, and access to peaceful gardens. These features are intended to support the emotional and psychological wellbeing of patients.
“These elements aren't luxuries; they're fundamental to the healing process,” Dr Olsson-Brown added. “They reduce stress, promote a sense of calm, and empower patients to feel more in control."
The new centre will also be a hub for the Sussex Cancer Research Centre partnership, promoting innovation and research in the field. Dr Duncan Gilbert, co-founder of the partnership, said: “This development isn't just about treating today's cancers; it's about shaping the future of cancer care."
The planning approval has been welcomed by local stakeholders. Alan Boyd, chief executive of Healthwatch Brighton & Hove, said: “This is fantastic news for patients, and Healthwatch welcomes this further development of the Royal Sussex County Hospital."
Construction of the new Sussex Cancer Centre is expected to begin in 2026, with the centre opening in 2029.