Excitement builds as new Cornwall Commercial Research Delivery Centre (CRDC) launches

The centre is set to revolutionise research access for communities across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

A major milestone in the future of healthcare was marked this week with the official launch of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly CRDC, a bold new initiative set to transform how local people engage with cutting-edge medical research.

The high-energy event, held in Truro, brought together more than 70 guests from across the region, including NHS and academic partners, board members, innovators, and healthcare leaders. Guests were treated to inspiring presentations, behind-the-scenes tours of the new facilities, and an enthusiastic opening ceremony that set the tone for an ambitious and impactful programme ahead.

The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly CRDC is one of only 15 centres of its kind across England, backed by a significant £3.5 million investment over seven years from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). Its launch marks a pivotal moment for the region, putting Cornwall firmly on the map as a leader in health and care research.

Hosted by the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust (RCHT) and supported by an impressive network of 25 NHS provider partners, including GP practices, community hospitals and integrated services, the CRDC is committed to making research accessible to everyone. For the first time, patients across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly will be able to take part in cutting-edge clinical trials without having to travel long distances or outside the county.

“This is a game-changer for our communities,” said Bianca Mills Head of Research & Development “The CRDC will at least double the number of research opportunities available across Cornwall, empower more people to be part of the future of medicine, and help bring world-class treatments and innovation directly to their doorstep.”

The energy and enthusiasm at the launch event reflected the scale of ambition behind the CRDC. From accelerating access to life-changing therapies to boosting the region’s research profile and attracting inward investment, the Centre promises to spark a new era of collaboration and discovery.

With a strong foundation in place and momentum building, the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly CRDC is poised to lead the way in creating a more research-active, forward-thinking health and care system for generations to come.