We’re proud to celebrate the topping out of the new state-of-the-art centre for advancing eye health in St Pancras, Camden.
This milestone marks the completion of the concrete structure of the Oriel centre, a collaboration between Moorfields Eye Hospital, the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, and Moorfields Eye Charity. Due to open in 2027, the centre will bring together clinicians, researchers, and students under one roof for the first time, paving the way for groundbreaking advancements in eye health.
The innovative centre will be the first NHS digitally enabled SMART hospital, integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance patient care and reduce eye health inequalities. Through its digital front door, patients can access specialist care closer to home, minimizing unnecessary visits.
Key features include:
- 14 purpose-designed theatres to improve clinical efficiency and elective activity.
- Standardised outpatient areas to future-proof care delivery.
- Dedicated education spaces for collaborative learning and training future leaders in ophthalmology.
- An innovation hub to foster collaboration between clinicians and researchers.
- Advanced lab facilities for experimental medicine, device development, and early-phase research.
- Enhanced welfare spaces for staff and students, including a roof terrace with views of London.
The project, located in the heart of the King’s Cross Knowledge Quarter, has been co-designed with input from staff and patients to ensure an inclusive environment that supports innovation, collaboration, and seamless patient experiences.
In a video shared during the event, Frances O’Callaghan, CEO of NCL ICB, praised the project’s ambition and highlighted its potential to transform eye care delivery, not only across North Central London but globally.
The Oriel centre is a £500m investment, funded by proceeds from the sale of Moorfields’ City Road site, generous donations to Moorfields Eye Charity and UCL Advancement, and support from the Department of Health and Social Care’s New Hospital Programme.
We look forward to seeing how this incredible facility shapes the future of eye health for years to come.
🎥 Watch Frances O’Callaghan’s reflections on this groundbreaking project.