Plans to build a Maggie’s Cancer Centre have moved a step closer following the submission of an application to build the new facility in the grounds of Forth Valley Royal Hospital.
If planning permission is granted, the centre, which provides support for people with cancer, their family and friends, could be open as early as spring 2015.
The plans, which have been drawn up by award-winning Nord Architecture from Glasgow, include computer-generated images of a design which has been inspired by wrought iron Victorian pavilions and makes references to the area’s strong links with the iron industry.
Situated within 70 acres of mature woodlands it will also be the first Maggie’s Centre to be built by the side of a lochan and will feature stunning views of the Ochil Hills.
Maggie’s chief executive, Laura Lee, said: “It is a beautiful location for one of our centres and one which I am sure will make an impact on visitors.The plans for Maggie’s Forth Valley are fresh and exciting and now the submission for planning permission has been made, I know it won’t be long before we open another Maggie’s Centre, providing an uplifting environment where people can find vital support
“As for the building itself, Nord Architecture is an inspirational and contemporary company which has drawn its influences from social and cultural issues which made them, in our eyes, the perfect fit for Maggie’s.
“The plans for Maggie’s Forth Valley are fresh and exciting and now the submission for planning permission has been made, I know it won’t be long before we open another Maggie’s Centre, providing an uplifting environment where people can find vital support.”
NHS Forth Valley’s chief executive, Jane Grant, added: “It’s very exciting to see the initial concepts for the new Maggie’s Centre at Forth ValleyRoyal Hospital. The proposed design captures the heritage of our local area in a beautiful modern building which perfectly complements its woodland setting and takes advantage of the wonderful surrounding scenery and lochan views. It will also provide a light, comfortable, friendly and welcoming environment to support the many hundreds of people from across Forth Valley who are treated for cancer every year.”
The £3m centre is being built thanks to the grant-making charity Walk the Walk. This will be the second time Walk the Walk has funded a new Maggie’s Centre. The first, Maggie’s Gartnavel in Glasgow, opened in October 2011.
Nina Barough CBE, founder and chief executive of Walk the Walk, said: “I look forward to seeing the creation of what I know will be a very beautiful, unique and ground-breaking building, while embracing the Maggie’s ethos and reflecting the care that this charity is renowned for. I feel very proud of our amazing walkers who, through taking part in The MoonWalk Scotland, are helping to make a huge difference to the lives of cancer patients.”
Maggie’s Forth Valley will offer an evidence-based programme of support including drop-in sessions with cancer support specialists, nutrition workshops and relaxation classes. It is expected to be visited at least 1,500 times in its first year.