Velindre Cancer Centre in Wales, UK

Velindre Cancer Centre in Wales, UK

The new Velindre Cancer Centre in South Wales aims to be the UK’s most sustainable hospital and set a whole new standard for cancer care. Our focus has been the inter-related reduction of whole life carbon impact and improving health outcomes through a fabric first approach and the use of daylight, views and natural materials, which contributes to a stress-relieving and harmonious environment for patients, visitors and staff.

High sustainability goals and natural materials

To meet the high sustainability goals, the building design prioritises local sourcing and natural materials with low carbon footprints that promote health and well-being. The scheme has a hybrid structural strategy, with mass-timber structure to public areas. Thanks to the use of materials such as hempcrete and mineral plasters that are breathable and flexible, a natural and calming environment is created for patients, relatives and staff.

To support a circular approach, the materials must be robust, easy to maintain, repair, or reuse. The design also seeks to reduce the amount of material used. This is achieved through an extremely compact and efficient building plan and optimised structural and material use strategy. Heat and cooling come from air heat pumps and solar cells are mounted on the roofs. The building aims to achieve at least BREEAM Excellent.

Client: Velindre University NHS Trust, Sacyr UK Limited
Consortium: Kajima Partnerships, Sacyr, Aberdeen, Andrew Scott, Kier Facilities Services, White Arkitekter, Ingho, Hydroc, BAC, MJ Medical, Turley, Studio Response, Camlins Landscape Architects, Osborne Clarke, Operis and Confab Lab.
Location: Cardiff, Wales, UK
Size/area: approx. 36,000 sqm
Project start/end: Competition won July 2022. Construction start 2024.
Status: Project planning
Sustainability: Climate neutral, circular architecture, natural materials, health, ecosystem services
Awards: European Healthcare Design award 2022
Images: Vivid Vision

We asked for a design that makes people feel good, that is strong, long lasting, flexible and efficient. We have got that – and so much more. We look forward to welcoming our first patient into the new centre.
STEVE HAM, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF VELINDRE UNIVERSITY NHS TRUST

In harmony with new green environments

The landscape approach to “keep it wild” is rooted in climate adaptation, biodiversity gain and community benefits programme, providing greater access to the site for members of the public whilst maintaining the distinctive natural setting. Existing trees will be retained and over 600 new trees, including pollinator-friendly, native species will be planted. Nature based solutions manage surface water and drainage to reduce flood risk.

At the same time, new landscape features such as an orchard and community kitchen garden are planned to support healthy habits. The design of informal playgrounds and a variety of walking, cycling and relaxation areas encourage play and movement in nature. Research shows the importance of greenery in hospital environments. In addition to having a calming, healthy effect, access to nature can speed up the healing process.

Together with the NHS and our partners we want to create a healthcare environment for the future that supports the mental and physical wellbeing of both patients and families, while also offering a state-of-the-art workplace for staff.
MICHAEL WOODFORD, DIRECTOR LONDON STUDIO, WHITE ARKITEKTER

The Acorn consortium, The new Velindre Cancer Centre

The consortium was appointed following a public procurement process run by Velindre University NHS Trust, and includes Kajima Partnerships, Sacyr, Aberdeen, Andrew Scott, Kier Facilities Services, White Arkitekter, Ingho, Hydroc, BAC, MJ Medical, Turley, Studio Response, Camlins Landscape Architects, Osborne Clarke, Operis and Confab Lab.

Contact & Team

Michael Woodford

Michael Woodford

Architect, Office director

+44 794 463 45 13

Darren Wilson

Project architect

Paddy Perring

Project architect

Sophie Crocker

Healthcare

Ana Grgurac

Healthcare

Caroline Varnauskas

Healthcare

Lisa Gustavsson

Technical design

Adolfo Barbeito Ulloa

Technical design

Sergio Denche Mozo

Technical design

Jerome Beresford

BIM

Anna Lisa McSweeney

Sustainability

Shreya Aneja

Sustainability

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