Supporting the development of the new cancer building at our local hospital

Healthwatch Brighton and Hove attended a stakeholder engagement workshop in September 2023 to discuss plans for the new Cancer Centre at the Royal Sussex County Hospital. The centre forms part of the wider redevelopment programme and will replace the existing cancer facilities when construction is completed. Healthwatch attended to understand how the new building would improve accessibility, patient experience, capacity and the overall care environment. 

The workshop outlined plans for a dedicated cancer facility focused on diagnostics, treatment, outpatient care, counselling and staff training. The proposed building includes an entrance atrium with extensive natural light, co-located radiotherapy and scanning services, outpatient departments designed around outdoor spaces, and new haematology and oncology wards. Plans also include a drop-off area, underground parking and single en-suite inpatient rooms, while maintaining opportunities for social interaction and support.

Healthwatch noted several features intended to improve the patient experience, including better access to natural light, more counselling and quiet spaces, improved wayfinding and greater use of multi-functional treatment areas. Plans were also discussed for a Macmillan presence within the building and for assessment facilities that could help some patients avoid unnecessary attendance at A&E.

The new Cancer Centre is expected to provide additional capacity compared with the existing building and was scheduled for completion in 2026. Healthwatch welcomed the opportunity to be involved at an early stage and planned to attend a follow-up session to explore the detailed design proposals further and continue representing patient views as the project develops.