Friday May 1 1998
The first phase of the Institute of Cancer Research's (ICR) major development of its Fulham Road laboratories has been completed and scientists began moving into the new extension of the Chester Beatty Laboratories in May.
Building has been going on for just over two years behind the hoardings which advertise the ICR's Great Discoveries Appeal to raise funds for the development. Laboratory space has been doubled to provide vital new facilities for scientists carrying out cutting edge research into all forms of cancer at one of the world's leading centres. The first phase will involve staff moving into labs on the ground, fourth and fifth floors of the building.
Professor Peter Garland, Chief Executive of the ICR says: "The new laboratories will enhance the performance of our staff in many aspects of cancer research including pioneering genetics. But there is still much more work to be done and the Great Discoveries Appeal will raise money for the next phase of this development."
The total cost of the development is expected to be £18 million.
The new building will also house The Breakthrough Toby Robins Breast Cancer Research Centre to be headed up by Professor Barry Gusterson of the ICR. This is the first centre in the UK wholly dedicated to breast cancer research and is funded by Breakthrough Breast Cancer. It will open for business in the autumn.
Professor Keith Willison, head of the Chester Beatty Laboratories says: "For many years there has been a lack of space for our scientists and we have all had to get used to working in less than suitable surroundings. The opening of the new Chester Beatty Laboratories heralds the beginning of a new era for the ICR and looks set to make our laboratories the best of their kind in Europe."
The ICR is now looking for support from the community to help achieve this aim. It hopes to encourage partnerships with both businesses and individuals to continue its development and progress in the fight against cancer.
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Unfortunately the press office are unable to answer queries from the general public. For general cancer information please refer to The Institute's cancer information page.