THE first centre of excellence to transform NHS care is to be built in Slough after being given the green light by planning chiefs.

A site in Slough Trading Estate will house a new research laboratory to develop better processes and systems to improve care and save money in the NHS. It will be the first to open as part of the Cumberland Initiative - a project run by a group of academics from universities across the country pushing for more simulation and modelling in the NHS.

The application, drawn up by academics at Brunel University, for a change of use from offices to educational use at 163 Bestobell Road was approved on August 29, and a lease was signed for the property on October 1.

A report submitted with the application stated the introduction of this facility would 'enable Slough to be at the forefront of this area of growth’.

Professor Terry Young, lead academic at Brunel University, said: “Our focus is on projects which provide improved outcomes for patients, decreased costs, reduced waiting times, better use of resources, speedier feedback for decision making and strong stakeholder involvement. And if you are a complete novice we’ll provide you with support.” The laboratory will trial new products, systems and service delivery ideas. It will include group exercises, training and seminars, with placements for students, and a workforce of up to 20 people.

Conditions placed on the property include no more than 120 people in the building at one time, parking should be provided and the building should only be open between 7am and 10pm.