Local hospitals may expand their cancer services as part of a proposal to move a unit currently based in London.

The Mount Vernon Cancer Centre in Northwood provides care for around 13,000 patients in the area, but faces challenges due to deteriorating facilities and a lack of urgent care options.

Plans suggest establishing a “world-class” cancer centre next to the new Watford General Hospital and adding a radiotherapy unit at either the Lister Hospital in Stevenage or the Luton and Dunstable Hospital. This initiative aims to shorten travel times for patients from Bedfordshire and North Hertfordshire.

Additionally, hospitals in London, including Northwick Park, Hammersmith, and Hillingdon, are expected to enhance their chemotherapy and radiotherapy services under this plan.

These proposals emerged following feedback from patients and staff after an independent review concluded that specialized cancer services could no longer be sustained at the Northwood site.

The facility is currently operating with fewer patients and fewer available services.

Clare Panniker, the regional director of NHS England for the East of England, remarked, “The Mount Vernon Cancer Centre boasts a rich history and a remarkable team; however, its current facilities do not adequately support the complex cancer care demands of today.”

“The proposed changes would allow us to unite two exceptional services, creating a premier centre of excellence that will serve local communities with high-quality healthcare from the same dedicated staff for many years ahead.”

West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust stated that the new establishment would feature “state-of-the-art facilities” alongside increased space for “innovation, research, and training.”

“Modern cancer care increasingly depends on a variety of on-site medical and surgical services, including Accident and Emergency and critical care,” they noted.

“With the new Watford General Hospital plans already approved, this proposal would introduce top-tier cancer services to the site, establishing a centre of excellence.”

Peter Taylor, the elected Mayor of Watford, expressed his support for relocating Mount Vernon but voiced concerns regarding timelines.

“The reconstruction of Watford General is more urgent than ever,” he stated. “Although this project is ready to move forward, it has faced delays, and construction is not slated to commence until 2032.”

“The government must prioritize the rebuilding of Watford General and provide the necessary funding without delay.”

A spokesperson from the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) commented, “This government took over a New Hospital Programme that was neither viable nor financially feasible.

“We have established a transparent and pragmatic funding strategy and timeline to advance the rebuilding of Watford General Hospital, ensuring it can begin construction promptly while delivering optimal value for taxpayers.”

A public consultation will soon begin, allowing the community to express their views on the future of the Mount Vernon Cancer Centre. The consultation will run from January 19 to March 26.