23rd September 2026
The Southern Health and Social Care Trust has officially opened its new Commercial Research Delivery Centre (CRDC) at Craigavon Area Hospital.
The Trust’s first dedicated facility for commercial clinical research will give more people the opportunity to take part in research and access innovative treatments.
The centre includes four clinical consultation rooms, a multifunction room, laboratory facilities and a phlebotomy room. Research activity will initially focus on cardiology, diabetes, renal and respiratory services.
Funded through the Voluntary Scheme for Branded Medicines Pricing, Access and Growth (VPAG), the centre represents a significant investment in research infrastructure and the future of healthcare across the Southern Trust.
Speaking at the opening, Professor Patricia Campbell, Medical Director for Research, Development and Innovation, said:
“Today marks an exciting new chapter for research in the Southern Trust.
“This dedicated facility will help more people take part in research and support our ambition to be a learning organisation, where research and innovation help shape the services we provide now and into the future.
“Research improves health and social care by helping us develop new treatments, medicines and technologies.”
Over the past two years, more than 750 patients have taken part in clinical research studies across the Trust, with around 100 active studies currently taking place across a wide range of specialties.
Dr Conor Hagan, Consultant Respiratory Physician, said:
“Research is essential to improving patient care. It helps us evaluate new treatments while giving patients access to approaches that may not otherwise be available.
“This new centre will help us increase the number of studies we can deliver and ensure more people have the chance to take part.”
Clinical trial participant Mairead McLogan, who spoke at the opening event, said:
“When I was diagnosed with a chronic lung condition, taking part in a research study became my lifeline.
“It gave me support, information and access to treatment that transformed my life. Research can make a real difference to people and I would encourage anyone interested to find out more.”4
Patients and service users played an important role in shaping the new centre. Working alongside staff from the outset, they helped develop artwork and contribute to the look and feel of the facility, ensuring the patient voice was at the heart of its design.
Dr Rhonda Campbell, Assistant Director, Health and Social Care Research & Development Division with the Public Health Agency, said:
“This investment will help grow commercial clinical research across Northern Ireland and strengthen our ability to bring innovative studies and treatments to patients.”
Eileen Mullan, Chair of the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, added:
“This is a proud day for the Southern Trust. The new centre builds on the excellent research already taking place across our Trust and reflects the dedication of everyone involved in making it a reality.
“I look forward to seeing the impact it will have for patients in the years ahead.”
