Weston Park unveils ambitious future plans on much-loved Sheffield hospital's 50th anniversary

Since its creation in 1970, Weston Park has secured a place in the hearts of generations of Sheffielders, treating and caring for many thousands of patients and their families at some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

However, after half a century of service, the building is in desperate need of renovation and the pioneering research departments must also be given space to develop if they are to keep up with the rapid pace of change in cancer treatment.

As well as a new main entrance, a larger outpatients department and additional car parking facilities, the plans would create a world-leading integrated centre of cancer research and innovation that will seek to answer some of the biggest questions faced by cancer specialists today.

Over £15m has already been invested in the ambitious vision but health chiefs say they cannot do it alone, and will soon launch an appeal through Weston Park Cancer Charity to fund the rest.

A spokesperson for Sheffield Teaching Hospitals said: “Weston Park Cancer Centre intends the next 50 years to be as transformational as the last.

“There is an ambitious vision for the future of cancer services across the South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw population which includes investment in new facilities, services and pioneering research programmes that will ensure our region remains a world leader in cancer care and research.

“However we cannot do this alone and so we will be looking to launch a fundraising appeal through our fantastic charity Weston Park Cancer Charity over the coming months and we hope people will feel able to support us as they have done over the past 50 years.”

To celebrate its 50th anniversary, The Star is publishing five pages of news and a 12-page supplement illustrating the contribution made to the city by Weston Park over the last half-century. Westfield Health has sponsored 1,600 copies of The Star to be delivered to Weston Park and shared among staff and patients.

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