Planning permission for first proton beam therapy clinic in England

Proton Partners International have received formal planning permission to build the first proton beam therapy clinic to be opened in England.

The planning application is for the specialised extension and remodelling of the Earth Balance wellness site located at West Sleekburn Farm, Northumberland. It was unanimously approved by Northumberland County Council’s strategic planning committee.

Mike Moran, Chief Executive of Proton Partners, said: “We are committed to bring proton beam therapy to the UK and this planning permission is the next piece of the jigsaw.

“The socio-economic impact will see the area evolve and develop into a state of the art cancer treatment facility, leading the way in the latest developments in science and technology. The facility will also provide skilled employment opportunities within Northumberland.

“By placing our centre in Northumberland, close to transport links, it can cater to a wider group of people in the north of England and Scotland who would benefit from proton beam therapy.

“Our centres will provide an all-encompassing cancer service for patients, offering proton beam therapy, as well as chemotherapy, traditional radiotherapy and imaging. We hope that in addition to providing top quality cancer care, our centres will become hubs of excellence for advanced cancer treatment.”

There are currently no operational proton therapy facilities in the UK and the demand for more specialised cancer care is growing. Proton Partners are at the forefront of bringing proton beam therapy to the UK and are working with class-leading providers which will equip the new centre to the highest specification.

Proton Partners International will also be opening a centre in Newport, where work is already underway, in addition to a third centre in London.