Clinical trial hubs to open as part of £400m public-private investment

Up to 18 new clinical trial hubs will open across the UK as part of a £400 million public-private investment aimed at fast-tracking new medicines. Experts said the move will benefit patients by making the NHS a more attractive place to undertake research. Health Secretary Wes Streeting also hailed the investment as a “significant vote of confidence in the UK” that will transform it into an “epicentre of health research, supporting an NHS fit for the future”.

The Voluntary Scheme for Branded Medicine Pricing, Access, and Growth (VPAG) Investment Programme is a collaboration between the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), NHS England and the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI). It is designed to support health and life sciences projects across the four nations. The majority of the funding – 75% – will be used to expand the UK’s capacity for commercial clinical trials by establishing up to 18 new Commercial Research Delivery Centres (CRDCs).

The hubs will bolster the UK’s trials infrastructure as well as supporting the recruitment of patients. Researchers will also have better access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology to enable trials to take place in hospitals and residential care settings. Mr Streeting said: “This private investment is a significant vote of confidence in the UK and will fast-track the next generation of treatments to NHS patients.

“It will enhance the UK’s global competitiveness and transform the .