Working with young people at a recent workshop in partnership with Regeneration Brainery. Image credit: London Cancer Hub.
Socius, the developer behind proposals for the London Cancer Hub, is calling on organisations in Sutton to collaborate on community initiatives.
An Impact Fund established in the early stages of the project has been instrumental in fostering community engagement and support, with 100 hours of local volunteering time committed, along with vital resources and financial contributions to assist local organisations. Beyond this, the project team, which includes Aviva’s in-house capital unit, Aviva Capital Partners, is extending its support to young people through a comprehensive 10-week work experience programme, offering invaluable opportunities for participants to gain hands-on experience with some of the industry’s leading professionals, including placements with renowned architects at Gensler and top engineering consultants at Arup.
In addition to these efforts, the project team has actively engaged with the local community through a series of educational workshops. These workshops, recently conducted with the Sutton Young Commissioners at Sutton Volunteer Centre, students from Harris Academy Sutton, and young adults from Regeneration Brainery, have provided participants with insights into potential career opportunities in science, technology, and innovation.
Daniel May, Development Director, Socius, said: “Our proposals for London Cancer Hub will deliver more than buildings; we want to ensure a legacy for local people. That is why we are urging local charities and organisations to get involved in this Impact Fund and help deliver initiatives that will be beneficial to the local community.”
“Whether this is through school workshops, community gardening, volunteering or pro-bono initiatives, we are excited to work together so that we leave a positive impact across all stages of development and create meaningful, long-lasting change in Sutton.”
Joanne Sainsbury, Director, Arup, said: “The Impact Fund is an ideal opportunity for the community to engage with the London Cancer Hub’s project team. From the earliest stages in the design of the development, we’ve had meaningful conversations and we are looking forward to building on these ideas and aspirations for the benefit of the local community.”
Building on the groundbreaking work already delivered by the Institute of Cancer Research and Royal Marsden Hospital, the London Cancer Hub aims to create a world-leading centre for cancer research, treatment, and innovation. The Hub will establish a dynamic ecosystem of state-of-the-art laboratories, cutting-edge research centres, and commercial facilities designed to attract top researchers, scientists, and innovators from across the globe. By fostering collaboration among leading experts, it is hoped that the Hub will significantly accelerate the development of pioneering cancer treatments.
As the London Cancer Hub moves forward with its pre-application consultation phase, there is growing interest from the local community in the potential interim or “meanwhile” uses of the development site. Residents and stakeholders are keen to see the space utilised in ways that benefit the community during the construction process. Suggestions for these temporary uses include creating recreational areas, such as padel courts, or establishing small businesses like a microbrewery or a bakery. These proposals not only offer opportunities for local engagement and enjoyment but also help integrate the London Cancer Hub into the fabric of the surrounding neighbourhood, enhancing its role as a vibrant and inclusive part of the community.
For any charities or organisations interested in getting involved, please email: [email protected] or visit www.cancerhub.london to find out more.
