UCLH welcomes the National Cancer Plan
04 February 2026
Publish date: 19 January 2026
Proposals to relocate Mount Vernon Cancer Centre to Watford, with UCLH as the preferred provider, have moved a step closer with funding agreed and the start of a public consultation.
NHS England has today launched a public consultation on plans to relocate Mount Vernon Cancer Centre (MVCC) to a new purpose-built facility, next to Watford General Hospital. The consultation follows agreement on capital funding and the completion of a comprehensive assurance process.
Subject to the outcome of the consultation and final due diligence, UCLH would become responsible for running MVCC services, which are currently provided by East and North Herts NHS Trust.
UCLH’s involvement reflects the recommendation from an independent review that MVCC should be managed by a specialist cancer provider, and it recognises the expertise and leadership our teams bring to delivering world-class cancer care.
We have been closely involved in shaping the proposed model, which will include new haematology services at the centre, as well as the development of a wider network of local services and improved access to clinical trials and specialist support.
David Probert, UCLH chief executive, said,
“This is a significant moment for the Mount Vernon Cancer Centre programme, as well as for UCLH’s role in cancer care.
“We are delighted that funding has now been agreed for the proposal to relocate Mount Vernon Cancer Centre to a new purpose-built facility in Watford. We look forward to working with partners following the outcome of the consultation, to deliver a long-awaited and sustainable future for this important centre.”
The public consultation will run until 29 March 2026, with patients, staff, key stakeholders and the public invited to share their views on proposals to relocate MVCC to a new, purpose-built facility next to Watford General Hospital. Further information on the consultation can be found here: Mount Vernon Cancer Centre Review.
