Plans Unveil £30m Sir Bobby Robson Cancer Institute Newcastle

Plans have been submitted for the £30 million Sir Bobby Robson Institute, a new cancer research and treatment centre at Newcastle's Freeman Hospital, designed to pioneer innovations in cancer care and significantly increase clinical trial availability. The facility, inspired by the molecular structure of Rubraca—the first "Geordie cancer drug"—will unite existing cancer trials and research teams in a three-storey building, serving a local population of around 3.5 million but benefiting patients globally. Construction is planned to start in spring 2026, with an opening targeted for 2028, pending planning approval. The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, established by the late England and Newcastle United manager Sir Bobby Robson, has raised £20 million so far and will launch a campaign to raise the remaining £10 million needed. Mark Robson, Sir Bobby's son, emphasized the institute as a potential gamechanger in cancer research and treatment, acknowledging the crucial role of fundraising efforts and community support. The project has attracted notable patrons and aims to increase clinical trial activity by 50% over five years, marking a major advancement in cancer care in the North East and beyond.