In May 2021, we opened an exciting new purpose-built office in partnership with Liverpool City Council – RCP at The Spine. For the first time in our 500-year history, the RCP is working from two main homes, transforming our reach and facilities for members in the north.
The onset of the pandemic posed considerable and unexpected challenges to the development of The Spine. Despite this, we made impressive progress thanks to close collaboration with Liverpool City Council, Morgan Sindall (the construction contractors), CBRE (our professional advisers), and our own contractors. As a result, work started on site in June (rather than March), taking full account of all industry standards and regulations to ensure safe working in these unique circumstances. By the end of 2020 it was possible to see the plans and architect’s impressions becoming reality, contributing to what is a striking and important building.
The RCP is taking space on seven of the 14 floors in the building and is funding the fit-out of those floors. We have been supported by generous donations from several organisations, for which we are very grateful.
The Spine will enable us to provide examinations, educational courses and meetings, lectures, and wider events in an environment that has extensive biophilic features and is on track to meet the Platinum WELL Standard, supported by state-of-the-art facilities. These include a Harvard-style theatre, and a virtual video wall enabling remote as well as physical participation and interaction with delegates.
In 2020 the new Clatterbridge Cancer Centre opened close to The Spine, and their headquarters will be based in the building, as our neighbours. Along with the proximity of the Royal Liverpool Hospital, the universities, and other health and academic institutions, the RCP will be at the heart of a vibrant scientific community in Liverpool’s Knowledge Quarter. We have also strengthened our links with the city, exemplified by Liverpool City Council’s acceptance of our invitation to join the Inequalities in Health Alliance.
We opened our new facilities in May 2021, and despite the continuing uncertainties and challenges of the pandemic, we look forward to developing the RCP’s activities and our services and support for members in the north.