Rob Burrow Centre for MND takes step forward

Last month, clinical staff were celebrating a new milestone in the build of the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease, (MND) as the building approaches a major milestone of being watertight.

This marks a significant step forward in the building process, as once the glass is fully in, work on the interior can commence and ensure there are no weather-related delays. To celebrate the moment, MND specialists from the multi-disciplinary team, including Dr Foo, Consultant Neurologist and Claire Lang, Specialist Nurse, took the opportunity to have an update on the centre development, as they prepare to move in later in the year.

Claire Lang, Specialist MND Nurse, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said, “It was really exciting to mark this milestone and to see how much the building has moved on. We work really closely together as a team and we’ve started to imagine ourselves working in the new space. There’s so much light. And space. It’s an incredible spirit lifter and we can’t wait to welcome our patients and their families later this year.”

Once the external shell is fully sealed, attention turns to fitting out the interior spaces that will provide state-of-the-art facilities for people living with motor neurone disease. This latest development not only demonstrates the dedication and efficiency of the project team, it also brings the vision of the centre one step closer to reality. The new facility will offer much-needed support, research, and treatment services, and each milestone reached reinforces the commitment to delivering a centre that will make a real difference in the lives of those affected by MND.

Paul Watkins, Director of Fundraising, Leeds Hospitals Charity, “I was beyond impressed when I arrived on site this morning, the centre is looking remarkable. It’s the statement building that we hoped for. To be a part of this journey from idea to reality is quite incredible and I am beyond humbled by everyone who has donated and continues to donate to Leeds Hospitals Charity.

“Experiencing the sight of all the support at the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon this month, the momentum just continues to grow and I’m proud to be a part of the team creating something that everyone will be proud of, including Rob.”

After reaching its £6.8 million fundraising target for the Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease Appeal in December 2024, the charity is continuing to fundraise as part of ongoing efforts to transform lives for those affected by an MND diagnosis, for treatment, for research and to offer new hope to patients and their families.