We are supporting Aviva Capital Partners and Socius on the forthcoming plans for the London Cancer Hub, which will become the world’s leading district for cancer research and treatment.

Given the huge potential for social impact the development can deliver, Socius is calling on local organisations to come forward and partner on initiatives that will benefit Sutton’s communities.

An Impact Fund set up early in the project committed 100 hours of local volunteering time, alongside resources and money to support local organisations.

The project team, which includes Aviva Capital Partners, is also providing additional support for young people through 10 weeks of work experience. Opportunities include placements with lead architects Gensler and engineering consultants Arup.

As part of the development, we have recently facilitated workshops with the Sutton Young Commissioners at Sutton Volunteer Centre, students at Harris Academy Sutton and young adults with Regeneration Brainery, where attendees learnt more about careers in science and innovation.

The project team is also committed to improving existing cancer research and treatment as part of their work on the scheme, together raising more than £7,000 through various sporting challenges for The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.

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 to 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 at 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 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 will deliver a new ecosystem of labs, research and commercial facilities that will attract researchers and scientists from around the world and accelerate the development of cancer treatments.

With London Cancer Hub’s pre-application consultation underway, local people are expressing an interest in seeing meanwhile use on the development, including areas for the community to enjoy, which could include padel courts, a microbrewery or a bakery.

For any charities or organisations interested in getting involved, please contact londoncancerhub@meeting-place.uk or visit the LCH website to find out more.