Plans for new cancer research centre given green light

15 Mar 2012

Plans to build a state-of-the-art cancer research building by the Manchester Cancer Research Centre (MCRC) have been approved by Manchester City Council’s planning committee.

The MCRC is a partnership between The University of Manchester, The Christie and Cancer Research UK and the new research facility – located on land opposite The Christie and the Cancer Research UK-funded Paterson Institute – is seen as key to building on and developing the world-class cancer research that is carried out in Manchester.

Original plans for the MCRC facility had initially been rejected by the Council’s planning committee in January, but members voted unanimously to approve the amended proposals when they met today (Thursday).

MCRC Director Professor Nic Jones said: “We are delighted that our revised planning application for the MCRC research facility has now been approved, as it marks an important new phase in cancer research in Manchester.

“The MCRC can now continue to expand and deliver research that has life-changing potential for cancer patients. Cancer remains one of the world’s major healthcare challenges, not least right here in the Northwest of England. The MCRC’s vision is the development of personalised cancer treatments, based on improved knowledge of each individual’s disease characteristics, leading to better patient outcomes.

“The new research building will ensure that the MCRC provides outstanding opportunities and a vibrant environment for researchers, clinicians and external partners to work collaboratively towards this vision through a single-site, ‘bench to bedside’ approach.”

Enabling work on the site is scheduled to begin shortly, with construction to follow within months. Details and planned schedules of activity will be available on the MCRC website in due course: http://www.mcrc.manchester.ac.uk/newbuild/

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