Sir Bobby Robson cancer research centre planned

Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has submitted plans for the Sir Bobby Robson Institute, a new £30 million cancer treatment and research facility to be built at Freeman Hospital. The centre aims to expand access to clinical trials and support innovation in oncology for patients across the North East, north Cumbria, and North Yorkshire.

The project is being funded by The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, part of Newcastle Hospitals Charity, while the Trust will oversee its operation. Main contractor Robertson Construction North East, appointed through the NHS ProCure23 framework, has provided pre-construction and design services since January, working with P+HS Architects to finalise the technical specifications.

The proposed three-storey building will bring together the existing Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Trials Research Centre and other hospital-based research teams specialising in cancer and blood disorders. Designed to accommodate advanced medical technology and research infrastructure, the facility is expected to increase clinical research activity by 50% over five years. This will enable larger and more complex trials, with potential benefits extending beyond the region.

The design draws inspiration from the molecular structure of a hexagon - a nod to Rubraca, a cancer drug with strong regional ties, often referred to as the first "Geordie cancer drug."

Neil Kennedy, Regional Managing Director at Robertson Construction North East, said the planning milestone marks "the next step in delivering a facility that will have a profound impact on cancer treatment and research across both the North East and globally."

Robertson Construction has previously collaborated with Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust on several healthcare projects. Kennedy added that the company is prepared to move seamlessly into the delivery phase should planning approval be granted.

To date, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation has raised £20 million toward the cost of the project. A new fundraising campaign is set to launch in an effort to secure the remaining £10 million. If approved, construction is expected to begin in spring 2026, with the centre due to open in 2028.