Category: Occupiers

Community gardens, sculptures and green trails offer a glimpse of plans to transform world-leading cancer district.

Aviva Capital Partners and Socius have revealed further details behind the green amenities which will underpin the £1 billion development of the London Cancer District.

Pending planning approval, the recently-submitted masterplan outlines ambitions to create a world-leading centre for cancer research, treatment, education and enterprise in Sutton. The plans also reveal how the development partners hope to place ecology, wellbeing and community at the heart of the project.

In response to community feedback, where 53% of surveyed residents expressed a strong desire for more green spaces, the masterplan prioritises pedestrian-friendly and nature-rich environments, supported by adaptable design of the public realm. These spaces will cater for a range of uses, helping to bring people together, build community cohesion and create a dynamic sense of place.

As a central feature, a 2km green leisure trail, roughly equivalent to six laps around a football pitch, will be delivered. Supporting The Royal Marsden’s Physical Activity Strategy, the trail will wind through vibrant public squares and green corridors, encouraging physical activity and offering peaceful spaces for visitors, locals and patients to rest and recover.

In a commitment to the future of the District’s green infrastructure, the masterplan also includes a robust management framework which will ensure biodiversity and landscape features are maintained and monitored for at least 30 years.

Subject to planning permission being granted, the development will see:

• More native trees – 167 new trees will be planted across the site, the majority of which will be native and chosen for their ability to support biodiversity and improve air quality. This will help to increase the proportion of native trees across the site from 12% to nearly a third.
• Greener connections created – The scheme will incorporate a mix of new habitats, including native hedgerows, wildflower meadows, biodiverse green roofs and living walls. The length of hedgerows will more than triple to improve ecological corridors.
• Biodiversity supported in and around the Borough – New habitats within the development will include more spaces for pollinators like bees and butterflies, native woodlands, amphibian and aquatic environments. In partnership with organisations such as Nattergal, the plans will also deliver off-site improvements to restore woodland and wildflower habitats in the London Borough of Sutton and surrounding areas. The combination of the off- and on-site improvements will result in a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain.
• Sustainability prioritised – Following the Mayor of London’s Be Lean, Be Clean, Be Green, and Be Seen energy hierarchy, the Cancer Hub will incorporate fully-electric systems powered by air-source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels and future-proofed to connect to a district heating network if one comes forward. The overall energy strategy aims to deliver a 33% reduction in regulated carbon emissions, with a £1.5 million carbon offset to support local sustainability initiatives.

More immediate placemaking improvements to the site will come forward in the coming months, ahead of the planning determination. This includes the recently approved plans to create a four-court padel facility, which is due for completion this summer.

In celebration of The London Festival of Architecture in June, the development team have also hosted a series of events and relocated the Moon Bloom sculpture from Sutton’s high street. The sculpture will take pride of place within a newly established community garden on-site at The Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, which was recently transformed by Socius into a tranquil and welcoming space.

In order to serve a future Specialist Emergency Care Hospital with a road connection that is fit for expected demand, the LCH planning application proposes the relocation of some allotments close to the west site boundary onto the London Cancer District site.

A commitment has been made to re-provide land to accommodate all the displaced allotments on the other side of Cotswold Road on a like-for-like basis, which will be ready for use before any existing plots are disturbed.

Daniel May, Director at Socius, said: “Integrating greenery and nature into our surroundings has a proven benefit of reducing stress, improving mental well-being and aiding recovery. We want to bring that to life here in Sutton, in spaces where people can thrive, whether they’re residents, patients, visitors or employees.”

Joss Taylor is Head of Activation at Populate, a company founded by Socius, which helps investors maximise the potential and social value from their buildings and spaces.

Commenting on London Cancer Hub’s meanwhile use, Joss reflects: “Populate was created to help unlock long-term social and economic value, and it’s been great to make a start on that ambition here in Sutton. As we’ve seen in the new community garden, the Moon Bloom sculpture and plans for temporary padel courts, our early activations have sought to create meaningful, welcoming spaces for everyone.”

The London Cancer District is targeting BREEAM Excellent ratings across all phases and an Urban Greening Factor of 0.48, well above the policy target of 0.3. The design includes passive energy measures, smart building management, and flood and overheating resilience.

Belmont’s first-ever padel facility set to launch this summer

Plans to serve up Belmont’s first padel courts at the London Cancer District have taken a major step forward, following approval from Sutton Council.

The four-court facility will be delivered by Social Sports Society, the operators behind similar successful ventures like Wembley Park Padel. With construction set to begin this month and completion expected by July, the finished courts will transform a currently unused plot within the London Cancer District into a dynamic centre for sport, health and social connection.

The new facility forms part of Aviva Capital Partners and Socius’ wider vision to create a £1 billion world-leading cancer research district.

The plans for the courts respond directly to feedback gathered from over 4,500 local residents and stakeholders during public consultation, with more amenities and recreational spaces identified as key priorities for residents and staff alike.

As well as supporting dozens of local jobs, Social Sports Society has confirmed the facility will provide ten hours of free court access for the community per week, which will include: free play sessions, youth coaching for at-risk groups and partnerships with local schools such as Harris Academy.

As one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports, padel blends elements of tennis and squash into a dynamic and inclusive game suitable for all ages and abilities. The fully demountable courts will be made with sustainable materials, including reclaimed wood, with integrated planting complementing the design, enhancing the surrounding landscape and contributing to the temporary facility’s low-impact footprint.

The courts will remain in place for up to seven years as a temporary feature, with a flexible design that allows for relocation or adaptation in line with the evolving development of the London Cancer District.

Tom Rooney, CEO of Social Sports Society, said: “We’re thrilled to have secured planning approval to bring padel to Belmont for the first time. With demand for padel growing rapidly, this project will help to deliver real benefits for the health and wellbeing of residents and visitors alike, bringing the community together in an inclusive space for all ages and abilities to enjoy.”

Joss Taylor is Head of Activation at Populate, a company founded by Socius, which helps investors maximise the potential and social value from their buildings and spaces.

Commenting on the padel plans, Joss said: “Public feedback has been at the heart of shaping this initiative. Throughout our consultation, a significant number of local residents and staff called for more on-site amenities. These new courts directly respond to that request.

“The facility will provide a wide range of health benefits, coaching opportunities and offer free sessions for local pupils and underrepresented groups. Taken together, it will help to reduce social isolation and strengthen community bonds in what was until recently a vacant space. We look forward to sharing more updates – and hopefully enjoying some strawberries and cream in true Wimbledon-style at the launch event!”

Sophie White, Sector Head for Regeneration at Aviva Capital Partners, said: “We’re focused on investing to grow the economy, drive regeneration and support the creation of jobs and homes across the UK; objectives which align closely with our investment in Sutton. The new padel facility is an early example of how The London Cancer District will deliver lasting benefits to the local community. Subject to planning permission, it will sit alongside a world-class research centre which will position the UK at the forefront of cancer innovation.”

Newly released CGIs show future vision for London Cancer District, which once built, will create thousands of jobs and contribute £1.2 billion to the UK economy

Aviva Capital Partners (“ACP”) and Socius have submitted a planning application to Sutton Borough Council for the development of the London Cancer District , which is set to become the world’s leading district for cancer research and treatment.

Situated within Europe’s leading cancer treatment centre, the proposals for the 12-acre site in Belmont sit adjacent to The Institute of Cancer Research, London, and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. The plans will create approximately 1 million sq ft of additional state-of-the-art lab and research space.

The masterplan includes large-scale facilities for global pharmaceutical and life sciences companies, flexible incubator spaces for start-ups and collaborative office space to bring together researchers, clinicians and innovators in one connected ecosystem to drive forward cancer research breakthroughs.

The development was featured in the Mayor of London and London Councils’ Growth Plan and is forecast to deliver £1.2 billion (Gross Value Added) annually to the UK economy. It is also expected to create 340 jobs per year during construction and 3,000 direct jobs in operation, the majority of which will be in highly-skilled R&D and small-scale manufacturing related to life sciences.

Over the next 30 years, the proposals are also expected to generate £54 million worth of social impact through job creation, health and wellbeing improvements and the delivery of new public amenities.

Building on the world-class research already undertaken by The Institute of Cancer Research, London, and The Royal Marsden, the project is designed to create a more connected and inclusive district for cancer research. Improved wayfinding, upgraded road infrastructure and new pedestrian and cycling routes will link new facilities, green spaces and existing institutions such as the Harris Academy STEM school, The Innovation Gateway incubator and Maggie’s cancer care centre.

Set around landscaped, nature-rich green spaces that promote wellbeing and recovery, the plans will exceed mandatory sustainability and energy efficiency standards and aim to achieve net-zero carbon in operation. The site will also include new restaurants and cafés, a nursery and a dedicated ‘Learning Lab’ with classrooms to inspire young people to pursue careers in science.

To attract and retain talent, 100% affordable accommodation for approximately 220 key workers employed at the London Cancer District and across the wider district are also included as part of the proposals.

The London Cancer District plans have been shaped by extensive public consultation throughout 2024. Feedback from over 4,500 local residents—95% of whom were positive or neutral towards the plans—has helped shape the final proposals.

David Epstein, Managing Director of Aviva Capital Partners, said: “We invest to grow the economy, drive regeneration and create jobs and homes across the UK. We’re delighted to be investing in world-class cancer research in Sutton. As well as helping the UK to grow and get ready for the future, this investment will be a boost for the local area, with thousands of new jobs created.”

Daniel May, Director at Socius, commented: “We are entering a really exciting chapter for the London Cancer District project, which will be a catalyst for driving forward innovation and ultimately, the development of new and improved cancer treatments.

“We are grateful to the thousands of people who participated in last year’s public consultation, the feedback from which we’ve used to ensure the plans reflect local aspirations and deliver the best possible outcome for Sutton.

“Once developed, the London Cancer District has the potential to transform lives, not just locally through new jobs, amenities and key worker accommodation, but also through a collective effort to improve the countless lives across the world affected by cancer.”

Professor Kristian Helin, Chief Executive of The Institute of Cancer Research, London, said: “We’re very pleased to be working with Aviva Capital Partners and Socius on plans to further build the thriving multidisciplinary research district here at the site we share with our partners in Sutton, and we’re hoping that the project will attract a range of companies to locate here alongside us, as well as providing a home for companies that spin out from our science in future.

“The London Cancer District has great potential to enhance our scientific partnerships with companies in the pharmaceutical and broader life-sciences industries, in areas from the discovery and development of new cancer drugs to the creation of new treatment and diagnostic technologies.”

Dame Cally Palmer, Chief Executive of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The Royal Marsden’s Sutton site is home to a flourishing research community between The Royal Marsden and The Institute of Cancer Research, London, that consistently translates innovative ideas in drug discovery from the laboratory to the clinical setting for the benefit of cancer patients worldwide.

“We support the vision for The London Cancer District and the investment from Aviva Capital Partners to bring life sciences industry on to the site. We anticipate this will facilitate greater collaboration and foster an environment of excellence to further our work developing new and improved ways to diagnose, treat and care for our patients.”

James Blythe, Managing Director of Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “This is an exciting step forward in bringing together world-class cancer care, life sciences research, and training opportunities. Not only will it boost the local economy, but will help pave the way for us to deliver our plans for improved hospital facilities for local people.”

Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of the London Borough of Sutton, said: “The London Cancer District will position Sutton as London’s global centre for oncology. Already recognised as a leading life science cluster in the capital, the site’s uniqueness lies in its current delivery of world-class cancer research, discoveries, and treatment all within a single location.

“The life science sector and associated development will be pivotal to the future growth of the capital over the coming years as recognised by the Mayor of London’s growth plan that names the London Cancer District as the key engine for this growth. The submission of this planning application marks a significant step forward in this exciting development for Sutton and the capital.”

A decision on the determination of the application is expected later in 2025, with on-site works scheduled to begin in 2026, subject to approval. ACP and Socius have assembled a world-class team to deliver the development including Gensler (architects), Arup (structural engineers) and Savills (planning consultancy).

Belmont’s first-ever padel courts could be coming to the London Cancer District this summer.

Social Sports Society, the established London-based padel operator behind similar successful ventures like Wembley Park Padel, has resubmitted a planning application to Sutton Council for a change of use on the land and are calling on residents to show their support. The four-court facility will transform a currently vacant space within the site and form part of Aviva and Socius’ vision for the development of the London Cancer District.

As one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports, padel is an accessible and social game for people of all ages and abilities to get active. Combining elements of tennis and squash, it is played on smaller courts to encourage more creative play and doubles matches; creating an engaging experience that’s quick and easy to pick up and enjoy, regardless of skill.

The site, which is expected to open in Summer 2025, will support dozens of jobs and provide a new recreational outlet for local residents, London Cancer District employees and visitors alike.

Designed to improve community cohesion, the courts will prioritise advanced bookings for local residents and London Cancer District employees who can benefit from discounted rates.

The plans for the facility have been developed based on feedback collected during London Cancer District’s public engagement events. Featuring four fully demountable courts, the padel facility will blend vibrant colours and natural aesthetics with eco-friendly materials, such as repurposed wood for the reception and changing areas, alongside planting to enhance natural surroundings.

Based on community feedback earlier in the year, the revised plans will use sympathetic lighting and see the courts covered by a canopy to mitigate any light or noise pollution.

As part of the submission, the Social Sports Society has also outlined plans to maximise social impact through the facilities, with initiatives including free play sessions, coaching courses for at-risk youth and partnerships with schools to provide free padel facilities.

“Sport has an incredible power to unite people and padel is a perfect example of how an accessible, social game can transform underutilised spaces into thriving community hubs,” said Tom Rooney, CEO, Social Sports Society.

“By bringing people together through physical activity, we’re able to counter social isolation, create real connections and improve health and happiness outcomes right in the heart of neighbourhoods. We’re thrilled to serve up our plans to bring this vibrant sport to the London Cancer District.”

The courts are planned as a temporary feature at the London Cancer District, for up to seven years, while the long-term development of the wider London Cancer Hub development progresses. Built with adaptability in mind, the structures can be relocated or repurposed as needed.

Daniel May, Development Director at Socius, continued: “Having engaged with over 4,500 people last year as part of our wider plans for the area, many people expressed a wish to have more opportunities to exercise at the London Cancer District.

“The padel courts will be a real asset for the community, which is why we’re encouraging the community to show their support for this exciting new facility where they can get active, socialise and have fun.”

London Cancer District will be largest science project designed by Gensler in Europe

Aviva and mixed-use developer Socius announce they have appointed leading global architecture and design practice Gensler to lead the design of a new district for cancer research and treatment at the London Cancer District (“LCD”) in Sutton, London.

Gensler, which employs over 6,000 designers worldwide, has partnered with clients in the biotech, pharmaceutical and science-based industries to deliver lab, R&D and innovation facilities across the US and in Europe. Previous projects include Cure, a new healthcare innovation campus in New York; the IQHQ Research and Development District in San Diego which is set to be the largest urban commercial waterfront site along California’s Pacific coast; and the US headquarters for Denmark-founded biotech company, Genmab in Princeton, New Jersey..

London Cancer District will be the largest science campus designed by Gensler in Europe, comprising 1 million sq ft of labs, R&D space, healthcare facilities and supporting accommodation. The new buildings will be set within new landscaped green spaces and integrate with existing world-class facilities on the five-hectare site including The Institute of Cancer Research, The Royal Marsden Hospital and the Innovation Gateway, which provides incubator space for start-ups and spin-outs.

The design approach is to create state-of-the-art facilities with an active ground floor, helping to showcase innovation and support local employment opportunities in science-based industries. The development will be designed to exceed current sustainability standards and is targeting net-zero carbon in operation.

Gensler has been appointed to the project team alongside global engineering, design and sustainability consultancy Arup and the UK’s largest planning consultancy, Savills.

Sophie White, Regeneration Lead, Aviva, said “We are pleased to bring together this world class team to design and develop the LLondon Cancer District and advance the ambition to bolster the UK’s leading role in the global life sciences sector. Aviva alongside Socius look forward to partnering with local residents, businesses and Council to provide much needed jobs, training opportunities and wider community benefits”

Daniel May, Development Director, Socius, said: “Gensler has an unrivalled track record in designing London Cancer District to create a vibrant ecosystem of labs, R&D space and healthcare facilities that will attract leading researchers and scientists from around the world to drive forward further progress in cancer treatment and diagnostics, as well as inspire those that live, work and study in the area.”

Richard Harrison, Co-Managing Director, Principal at Gensler, said: “The site boasts a prestigious group of institutions, but we envisage a more connected and truly inclusive innovative district that will bring leading talent and businesses together to revolutionise cancer research and treatment. At Gensler, we recognise the transformative power of design to elevate health and wellness and are proud to be working on a project that will help accelerate scientific discovery.”