Dear Residents,
 
We hope you're well and thank you for your continued patience and cooperation.
 
You may have noticed improvements over the past week as a result of the additional parking measures we've put in place. These actions have been implemented to address concerns raised and to minimise disruption to the local community.
 
Key measures now in effect include:

• Designated Off-Site Parking: We have arranged off-site parking, sourced by Sacyr, and are operating a shuttle bus service to transport supply chain operatives to and from site.
• Parking Patrols: Regular patrols are being carried out in surrounding residential areas to monitor and discourage inappropriate parking. Notices will be issued to any vehicles found breaching our parking policy.
• Permit-Controlled Access: Senior subcontractor management have been issued permits for use at the Whitchurch Hospital (WHG) parking area. Access to this area is now strictly controlled.
• Green Travel Incentives: Group vehicles (carrying five or more individuals) are being encouraged as part of our sustainability initiative and are permitted access to the on-site car park upon registration.
• Collaboration with Local Authorities: We are working closely with local PCSOs, who are actively supporting our efforts through community patrols. To date, they have reported no vehicles requiring enforcement.

 
We remain committed to being a good neighbour and will continue to monitor and refine our approach as necessary. Your feedback is always welcome and appreciated.

A group of 15 Year 3 pupils from Coryton Primary, recently took a short journey to the site of the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC) for an afternoon of fun, exploration and recycle based learning. 

The visit was part of a collaboration between Sacyr UK and EMR Recycling, aimed at building essential skills in future generations, by educating young pupils to the science of construction and the sustainable systems that support it.

Welcomed by Sacyr UK’s Community Benefits Co-ordinator Joanne O’Keefe, the pupils began their visit with a guided site walk, observing the scale of the nVCC project from a surrounding safety path. 

Inside the classroom, pupils met EMR Recycling representatives Barry Flanagan and Ben Taylor, who led an engaging session on what materials are used on site and the important role recycling plays in producing them. Pupils also learnt about reducing waste to combat climate change. 

When asked about the aims and influence of the project, Ben said: “At EMR, we believe that building a sustainable future starts with empowering young people through education. In collaboration with Sacyr, we recently delivered an engaging learning experience that introduced students to the importance of recycling, the positive impacts recycling has on the planet and how the materials we recycle can be used again to build new structures - maybe even their next school or future workplace.”

The two eco experts taught pupils the difference between magnetic and non-magnetic materials, giving them small samples of material to magnetically test themselves. This helped them to understand the types of metals used in everyday life and their relevance to construction.

Ben added: “Together, Sacyr UK and EMR will continue this work across schools and communities to raise awareness around recycling in the construction industry, providing hands-on learning opportunities and inspiring the next generation to lead the way in environmental responsibility.”

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to social value, educating young people and creating legacy impacts for people and the planet.”

As some readers may remember, back in July we ran an article about Sacyr UK welcoming two new apprentices, Faith and Sam, to our Finance and Community Benefits teams.

We are pleased to announce the addition of two new team members to our Technical Support and M&E (Mechanical and Electrical) departments, with Lucy Calafato and Oliver Jenkins assuming these roles.

Lucy, 26 and originally from Cardiff, studied at the University of the West of England, completing a BEng in Architecture and Environmental Engineering will be joining as an apprentice within the Technical Support team.

Eighteen year old Oliver is local to the site of the nVCC (new Velindre Cancer Centre) and studied art history and law in sixth form at Whitchurch High School. When asked about his first week he said, “My first impression after my first week is very positive, the staff at Sacyr UK are very welcoming and I'm excited to continue on.”

Community Benefits Coordinator Joanne O’Keefe oversees the onboarding of the new apprentices commented: “It’s encouraging to see our team continue to grow. I am confident that Lucy and Oliver will be valuable contributors to their respective teams.”

She also added, “The strength that comes from expanding our team is significant, and I look forward to seeing their development.”

We’re delighted to have Lucy and Oliver joining our team and have total faith that they will thrive. 

Sacyr UK’s Community Benefits Coordinator (CBCo), Jo O’Keefe and Community Benefits Apprentice (CBA), Sam Rees, were delighted to join forces with Robyn Marshall of Sphere Solutions to deliver an educational experience for pupils at Springwood primary school in Llanedeyrn during their Fit & Fun Summer event.

The engaging session introduced pupils to the world of structural engineering through a fun and accessible STEM activity. Using just sticks and elastic bands, pupils were guided to build tetrahedrons. They quickly grasped the principles of construction before enthusiastically moving on to create larger and more complex models.

Sacyr UK and Sphere solutions have a longstanding collaborative relationship, with Sphere Solutions supporting Sacyr UK in the construction of the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC).

The workshop is part of Sacyr UK’s wider commitment to education and skills development in South Wales, with the company currently leading the construction of the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC). Sphere Solutions is working closely with Sacyr UK as a subcontractor on the landmark healthcare project.

The timber frame is essential to the centre’s structure and serves as a key design feature. Once complete, it will form the heart of the Lolfa, creating a warm and welcoming environment for patients, families, and staff.

New Velindre Cancer Centre Project Director David Powell said: “The start of the timber frame is a hugely exciting milestone. This key structure will not only define the look and feel of the Lolfa, but also reflects our commitment to building a modern, low carbon hospital that places people at its heart.”

As one of the largest timber frames of its kind in the UK, its installation is a significant step in realizing the new centre’s design. The design of the nVCC revolves around the Lolfa, the central core space that extends through the full height of the building. All visitor and patient journeys begin and end in this space. This central area will be easily identified by its finishes and design, providing a welcoming point of arrival for patients and visitors. It will include a café area, and a second flight of stairs that also provides an amphitheatre type seating where doctors, nurses, visitors, or patients can sit and enjoy the view into the lower entrance garden.

Every aspect of the nVCC’s design, including the Lolfa, is centered on the needs of patients, staff, families, and carers. Features such as improved navigation, better parking, therapeutic spaces, and dedicated family areas will enhance comfort, dignity, and the overall care experience.

The nVCC is scheduled to open in Spring 2027. It will deliver better outcomes through world-class cancer treatment, enhanced diagnostic capability, and greater access to innovation, training and research.

These images show the start of the works, and we’ll be sharing more updates as the timber frame progresses, so stay tuned! If you’ve got any questions, leave us a comment below.

On August 18th, Sacyr UK’s Community Benefits team had the pleasure of visiting the Hollybush Estate near the site of the new Velindre Cancer Centre for a residents' engagement session. During this visit, the team spoke with residents of the estate to discuss the project and address any questions or concerns related to the developments progress.

In addition to providing an opportunity for open dialogue, the Community Benefits team presented a generous donation to the Hollybush Estate Pantry, collected from members of the project team within the Sacyr site office. The pantry operates as one of several food banks across Cardiff, serving anyone in need, regardless of their proximity to the estate.

While touring the Hollybush communal facilities, Sacyr’s Workforce Development Coordinator Hannah Jenkins noted the opportunity to enhance the space’s functionality where the food collection was being stored. She recommended that Sacyr contractors could assist in installing improved shelving to better utilise the area. Raz, one of Sacyr’s supervisors was on hand to give his professional opinion and it was agreed that we would support upon approval from Cardiff Council. 

We have also highlighted the pantry through a feature on our community platform site within the Volunteering Opportunities board. This initiative aims to connect those in need with local foodbank resources in Cardiff and encourages staff members interested in volunteering or contributing to community support.

We’re very thankful to the residents at the Hollybush pantry for taking the time to speak with us, and hope future dialogues continue to be as productive.

We are aware of recent concerns regarding parking around the Whitchurch Hospital site and want to assure the local community that we are treating this issue as a priority.

To reduce disruption and prioritise access for patients and hospital staff, construction workers have been restricted from using the on-site hospital car park as of Monday 29th September. Subcontractors were informed of this change in advance, with formal communications sent on Thursday 25th September, reminding them of two designated off-site parking facilities.

To further support this approach, a third off-site parking facility was introduced on Wednesday 1st October, bringing the total to three available options for construction workers:

• Harlequins Rugby Club
• Cardiff Edge Car Park
• Rhiwbina Rugby Club

To ensure clear direction, we have also deployed traffic marshals and issued digital communications to guide subcontractors to the appropriate parking areas.

Despite these proactive steps, a small number of subcontractors have continued to park on public roads, particularly around Clos Coed Hir, which has understandably caused concern among residents.

While public road parking is legally permitted, our subcontractor agreements clearly prohibit parking in nearby residential areas. These expectations are reiterated during all worker inductions and in ongoing communications. Unfortunately, enforcement remains a challenge, but we are taking further steps to improve compliance.

We are also exploring ways to make the off-site parking options more attractive and convenient for workers, to further encourage proper use of the facilities provided.

Our team continues to work closely with the Trust to monitor the situation and implement solutions. We remain committed to minimising disruption and maintaining positive relationships with the local community.

We appreciate your patience and support as we address this issue.

New Velindre Cancer Centre - Summary Monitoring Report - September 2025

Watch last month's construction progress!

Frequent readers will remember last month we ran a story about Sacyr’s support of Believe Organ Donation Support (ODS) in their goal of creating an honorary garden to be built in Cardiff’s Northern Cemetery, and here we are happy to be able to provide an update.

Late last month Stakeholder engagement and community benefits manager (SECBM) Katie Hathaway supported the Believe team with a full volunteering day. The help-out day consisted of an array of benefit creation for the organisation. These ranged from assisting in the development of marketing materials, along with aiding in their constructing their business strategy, and prepping for the upcoming ground works.
The process of creating the space began on the 4th of August, with aims for the garden to be open by December at the end of this year. We’re proud to be able to support Believe in their efforts to memorialise those who have given so much to society and asked nothing.

Here is the most recent photo taken to show just how far the garden has come and special thanks to the several companies supporting Anna Bates (CEO and Founder of Believe Charity) who are bringing this project to life. For any companies looking to support the development through sponsorship, please click here

At the New Velindre Cancer Centre project, suicide prevention is more than just a one-day event. It is a core part of our ongoing commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing. Through visible site messaging, access to mental health resources, and a strong partnership with the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, we work every day to create a culture of care and openness.

On 10th September, in recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, Sacyr placed a renewed focus on mental health by delivering a powerful series of discussions across the site. More than 70 team members took part in these sessions, held both in person and virtually. The conversations focused on recognising emotional triggers, developing emotional awareness, and the importance of talking openly, especially during dark or difficult times.

Our Health and Safety Advisor, Stephanie Alexander, led these sessions personally, demonstrating the importance of being present and connected with the workforce. Stephanie also delivered focused training for managers and supervisors, helping ensure they are equipped to support their teams and respond appropriately in times of crisis.
Stephanie shared why these conversations matter so deeply to her: “Talking to construction workers about suicide awareness is crucial because the industry has high suicide rates, a culture that discourages emotional openness, and many job-related stressors. Raising awareness helps break stigma, encourages support among peers, and promotes a safer, healthier work environment.”

With suicide rates in construction still alarmingly high, and workers three times more likely to die by suicide than the national average, initiatives like this are essential. Mental health support must extend to everyone on site, regardless of role or seniority, because at Sacyr, we believe everybody’s wellbeing matters.

We are committed to building more than just projects. We are building a safer, stronger, and more compassionate construction industry.

On 17th July, Sacyr’s Communities Team had the pleasure of visiting Cerebral Palsy Cymru’s children's centre in Llanishen after they reached out for support with their retail evaluation. The team arrived at the centre and were greeted by Carwyn Williams, Head of Corporate Partnerships for the organisation. Carwyn gave the team a background on the charity, their aims, the therapy they provide, and the origins of the children’s centre’s inception. 

Before the creation of the premises in the mid-1980s, founding members Paul and Yvonne Lubas, Glenys and Bob Evans were taking regular 300-mile round journeys to London’s Bobath centre, in order to receive specialist therapy for their children. Bobath in this context refers to Berta Bobath, founder of the Bobath method and mother of contemporary neurological physiotherapy.  

Eventually finding the journey impossible to repeat frequently, the group began fundraising in 1989 in order to find a solution. Four years later, after considerable efforts in fundraising, they were joined by parents across South Wales also seeking accessible treatment for their children, with this collective effort they were able to open Bobath Cymru in June of 1992. 

Starting with just four therapists, in its first year they were able to treat 45 children. In 2020, the organisation changed their name to Cerebral Palsy Cymru, to ensure they could be found easily by families living with cerebral palsy. 

After a tour of the facility, seeing their therapy rooms, specially designed wellbeing garden and hearing about the intentional ergonomic design of the facilities, the CB team were astonished by the work done by the team, and could not wait to help however possible. 

As part of their funding is raised via charity shops across the Cardiff & Barry area, the task assigned to the Community Benefits Team was to assess these stores and create useful feedback on how they might improve. In groups of two, the CB team covered the stores within Cardiff and were able to find improvements that could be made with their help. 

We provided some detailed feedback through a comprehensive report, and we're excited to share that a new platform feature is now in the works to assist local charities, inspired by the insights we gathered together.

Sacyr Community Benefits Co-ordinator Joanne O’Keefe welcomed Careers Wales Co-ordinator Dominique Deacon, Business Engagement Advisor with Careers Wales Adrian Cole, and Kathryn Cole- Assistant Head of Bryn Y Deryn for a morning discussion ahead of the upcoming Valued Partner scheme.

The scheme would create a beneficial and lasting relationship between the school and the main contractor building the nVCC.
Together they explored the possibility of having Sacyr staff deliver a long-term project within the school. Sacyr Draftsman Jamie Arthur, who had worked with the pupils previously and established a positive rapport, threw his hard hat into the ring, offering up his expertise and professional experience within the school. The project is tentatively formulated lesson plans to involve creating plans and drawings, providing cost estimates, or engaging in a trade-related activities. 

So that students can see the positive impact they can create with their own hands, the lessons may include constructing a desired feature for the school or preparing an area on-site to facilitate future construction workshops. Assistant Head Kathryn Cole has suggested an unused Design & Technology room within the school which may be appropriate for development, with a likely helping hand from Sacyr staff to bring the workshop to life.

Jo and the group discussed the possibility of Sacyr staff delivering subject-specific career sessions. One potential focus was mathematics, where Sacyr staff could share how numeracy skills are applied in their roles, such as in trade work, professional positions, quantity surveying, or architecture and facilitate a brief practical math activity related to their field. 

Previous efforts have coordinated similar sessions across several schools successfully, being well received, and leading to school staff expressing openness to conducting guided sessions in various subjects.

Alongside this, Sacyr intends to have school visits to site a minimum of once a term, ensuring that a diverse range of departments and roles are represented during each visit, with task set out for the students to reflect the roles. This approach will demonstrate the project's progression over time and reflect the current activities on site. For example, visits could include areas such as the canteen to showcase hospitality and catering operations, horticulture activities during planting phases, and demonstrations or workshops involving drone technology to showcase how site progress footage is taken. Collectively these will hopefully open the eyes of the students to the wide range of careers available within Sacyr, and the wider construction sector. 

A mentoring scheme has also been proposed, along with ideas for a work experience programme involving safe working practices in the office, reception, and within the marketing department. 

(Left to right; Adrian Cole, Kathryn Cole, Joanne O’Keefe, Dominique Deacon.)

We wanted to let you know that new out-of-hours permissions have been granted for our works on the new Velindre Cancer Centre. Shared Regulatory Services have approved new Section 61 construction permission from 12th September to 8th October. 

This updated permission is focussed on finalised the reinforced concrete frame and essential shield protection concrete block works. 

Shield protection concrete block activities form a key part of the structural floor build-up process and involve mechanically fixed blocks. These works are classed as low-impact and are approved during out-of-hours periods under the current consent.
 
There will be no further out-of-hours working permitted under Section 61 for November. 
 
Permitted OUT OF HOURS working:
•    Monday to Thursday:
o    6:00 PM to 8:00 PM – Non-noisy works only
(e.g., Shield Protection blocks, rebar, form work, concrete, waterproofing, liftings)
o    No works allowed after 8:00 PM

•    Fridays:
o    NO out-of-hours works permitted
o    All works must cease by 6:00 PM

•    Saturdays:
o    1:00 PM to 3:00 PM - Shield protection blocks

•    Monday to Friday (early morning):
o    6:00 AM to 8:00 AM – No works permitted
(Site access allowed, but no shouting or noise)

Special measures for shield protection blocks works (out of hours):
Out-of-hours work will comply with the following:
•    Acoustic protection required for cutting, especially near Hollybush Estate
•    Prioritise interior works
•    Focus on ground floor activities; avoid ceiling works involving cranes
•    Use lateral protection where necessary

Lateral protection is any bracing temporary or permanent that provides support to resist forces and deflections.

Key Dates:
•    Until 11th September:
August s61 remains in effect
(Shield Protection Block works permitted 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Monday to Thursday)

•    From 12th September to 8th October:
September s61 applies
(No works permitted after 8:00 PM on any day)

Students from Pantside primary school spent a constructive afternoon learning about life on a building site and had the chance to see the building of the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC) in action. Community Benefits Coordinator Joanne O’Keefe conducted a lesson on the many creatures that live around the site in the natural environment, and the efforts Sacyr makes to protect them.

Wearing their special PPE, along with their clipboards, the pupils were challenged to explore the sites safety path, identifying both common objects found on site and elements of the wildlife that surrounds it.

After completing their checklists students were led back to the classroom to discuss what they had seen and enjoyed a well-earned lunch after a busy few hours of learning. Pupils left the site feeling informed and inspired by what they’d seen, excited to tell their class mates about their first experience on a building site.

At Sacyr, the community sits firmly at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we were absolutely delighted to welcome members of the Cardiff Bay Rotary to the new Velindre Cancer Centre site earlier this week.

Hosted on Tuesday 12th August, a gloriously sunny day with temperatures reaching 32°C, the visit brought together members of our Design, Health & Safety, Construction, and Community Benefits teams, along with our Project Director and Construction Director, to showcase the progress and innovation happening on site.

The International Rotary Club is a global network of volunteers dedicated to tackling some of the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges and in Cardiff, the local clubs play an important role in supporting community initiatives, youth development, and charitable causes across the city.

The visit stemmed from an invitation by local resident and Rotary member David Reeves, who first welcomed us to introduce Sacyr and the project at a Rotary meeting earlier this year at the Novotel. That initial conversation, and the warm reception from members made it clear that a site tour should follow and what better time than summer?

The tour offered a fantastic opportunity to highlight our progress, including some of the industry-first innovations taking place. With Rotarian members in attendance from a range of professional backgrounds including architects, nurses, engineers, and more - we were humbled to receive such positive feedback. Many noted how dramatically things have changed over the years, and how the design and delivery of the project stand out as truly unique.

One of the features we’re most proud of is the pedestrian pathway, which allows visitors from as young as six years old to safely experience the site firsthand. It’s this kind of accessibility and openness that sets Sacyr UK apart and reinforces our commitment to community engagement throughout every stage of the project.

President Angela Gorman said:" This was a truly inspiring visit. It was great to see how much progress is being made with the construction of this fantastic new facility and we are very grateful to Katie and her colleagues for arranging this and for meeting with us. We will look forward to coming again as further stages in this development are reached."

Keith Moger said: "Having worked in the NHS I have been on many hospital building sites but have never before come across the arrangements which Sacyr has made for those interested to be ‘up close and personal’ with this project. This is a great way forward to keep the public informed and interested. And also, as someone very grateful for the work of the current Velindre Cancer Centre, it is very good to know that they will soon have a hugely improved facility."

We extend our sincere thanks to David Reeves for initiating the visit, and to all the members of the Cardiff Bay Rotary for their enthusiasm and support. We look forward to welcoming them back in 2026 to see just how far we’ve come.

New Velindre Cancer Centre - Summary Monitoring Report - August 2025

Watch last month's construction progress!

Sacyr UK technical assistant Chantelle Lennard recently participated in the Women in Construction event hosted by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) with Jo O’Keefe, Community Benefits Co-ordinator (CBCo) at Bridgend College’s STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Academy. 

The event brought together 65 year nine female students, aged 14 to 15, from four local schools. The day was dedicated to inspiring and empowering the next generation of women in construction by showcasing the exciting range of careers available within the industry.

Sacyr was delighted that their Women in Construction video featured as part of the introduction, proudly showcasing the incredible contributions of the talented women working on the new Velindre Cancer Centre project. The video highlighted not only the impressive statistics around female representation on site, but also the diverse range of roles they occupy, demonstrating the critical impact women are making in shaping this landmark healthcare facility.

A key highlight of the event was the opportunity to hear from two inspiring women working in the field, Lana Abbott from RMG Groundworks and Alex Bear from Willmott Dixon. They shared powerful personal stories about their experiences in the construction sector, the meaningful impact of their work and encouraged students to consider careers they may not have previously imagined for themselves.

The students took part in a series of interactive, STEM-based activities designed to build confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. These included constructing foam brick towers, designing and assembling a large tetrahedron using rods and elastic bands, and tackling the popular marshmallow tower challenge. Each task simulating different aspects of construction and engineering. 

One of the standout experiences was the virtual reality (VR) headset activity, which allowed students to virtually step onto construction sites giving them a realistic and immersive perspective of the daily operations. The day concluded with a roundtable discussion, where students were able to engage directly with the professionals and address any specific questions they had.

Sacyr UK CBCo Jo O’Keefe, who attended the session said: “It was wonderful to meet so many pupils from schools around the region and discuss with them the career options for construction for them. As a male dominated industry, sometimes girls and young women don’t see it as an option for them, so it was great to be able to bring the industry to life using both technology and the real-life experiences of Lana and Alex".

Jo added: “Sacyr UK is proud to have supported this initiative, helping to spark curiosity and confidence in young women to explore the possibilities that a career in construction can offer.”

A group of Year 10 students from the Bryn y Deryn & Can y Deryn PRU (Pupil Referral Unit) Schools were invited for a site tour for Sacyr UK’s New Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC), with aims to inform and inspire their future.

A study done by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and the People’s Partnership, which looked at a group of 1,000 adults working in construction, found that about one in four workers identify as neurodiverse. The most common condition was ADHD, followed by Autism and Dyslexia.

Sacyr’s Community Benefits Coordinator Joanne O’Keefe organised a STEM educational session with the students, explaining the scope of the project and its sustainable design, showing the progress timeline’s current development, also covering the variety of jobs that happen on a site- and the different career paths available. 

Along with Jo was Draftsman Jamie Arthur, who gave students an insider view to what happens on a site, showing how the plans for the centre are brought into reality. Both joined by Health and Safety Adviser Josh Kincaid, who gave a brief talk guiding students through the proper safety precautions and conduct for the site. Informing them, but also educating them on the dangers of improper conduct. 

Having donned their hi-vis visitor vests, students headed out and were taken on a partial walking tour around the 60,000 square meter safety perimeter of the site, giving them a chance to see the work in practice for themselves. 

Civil Engineer Jake Doran Hughes gave insight into the variety of job opportunities available on site, helping to inspire the students, visualise the work, and breaking down some of the technical elements of a day in the life on site at the nVCC. 

To end the site tour, students were given Telehandler demonstration by operator Gregg Cuthbert, before being given a chance to take turns sitting in the driver seat, planting potential seeds for their future.

The tour was ended with a spot of lunch provided by Sacyr, the group gathered for a photograph to cap off the session. Leaving the site feeling inspired, one of the students was overheard leaving a voice note to a friend who had not been able to attend, stating that they “Had to come to the next one".