The new centre, designed by Steffian Bradley Architects (SBA), includes surgery and diagnostic facilities. The cancer centre contains a range of environmental measures that make it the most energy efficient NHS centres in UK. The hospital has won a CIBSE Low Carbon Performance Award in late 2008.
The building has a deep-plate ground floor, where much of the diagnostics is carried out, with three pavilions above, which each surround courtyards. All patient areas in the pavilions are naturally lit and ventilated, with corridors ending in windows, rather than blank walls and skylights are widely used.
The new centre was 60% prefabricated off site, and has flexibility for 20% future expansion. The centre includes 6 LINAC radiation cancer treatment machines, 2 C.T. scanners (with computerised tomography), and gamma cameras.
Ron Vestri, Studio Leader at SBA, said: “From a medical point of view, the design is cutting edge. A large element within this philosophy was getting as much natural light into the building as possible and enabling people to see pleasant views outside. If people can see green fields and smell fresh air they feel better. It’s something built into our psyche.”
Vickie Holcroft, director of relocation, Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals, said “We are immensely proud of our new facilities. It will deliver not only clinical excellence but also benefit our patients and staff in providing services in a beautiful, eco-friendly, light and natural environment”.
