New cancer centre approved at Brighton hospital

The development at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton was given the green light

A new five-storey cancer centre to serve patients in Sussex has been given the green light.

Planning permission was granted for the development at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton on Wednesday.

The University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said the centre would "significantly expand existing services for the growing number of people affected by cancer in Sussex".

Dr Sarah Westwell, consultant clinical oncologist and chief of cancer services at the trust, said it was "truly momentous news" for patients, their families, and staff.

She said: "With the sobering statistic that one in two 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.

"Our new Sussex Cancer Centre will expand current capacity for cancer care three-fold, reduce waiting times for patients and provide a more compassionate, healing, and research-driven environment for all those affected by cancer."

'Optimising treatment delivery'

Original plans were approved in March 2012, but the latest scheme has almost 300 fewer parking spaces than were previously proposed.

The centre includes more inpatient beds, all in single en-suite rooms, and a dedicated acute cancer assessment unit, meaning many cancer patients will be able to be cared for as outpatients rather than attending the main A&E department, according to the trust.

Dr Anna Olsson-Brown, consultant medical oncologist and clinical director of clinical cancer care, said the design of the centre was "crucial" in not just treating cancer but "supporting the whole person".

"We've focused on creating spaces filled with natural light, with views of the sea and green areas, and with access to peaceful gardens and terraces whilst optimising the delivery of treatment," she said.

"These elements aren't luxuries; they're fundamental to the healing process.

"They reduce stress, promote a sense of calm, and empower patients to feel more in control."

Following approval of a full business case, the trust says construction is expected to begin in 2026, with the new centre scheduled to open for patients in 2029.