Sacyr UK hosts topping out ceremony to important milestone in the construction

Sacyr UK, the contractor building the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC), has celebrated the latest phase of construction with a topping out ceremony.

The ceremony was marked by placing a spring of pine on the highest point on of the building – a symbolic gesture and a construction tradition that acknowledges the hard work and dedication of all those involved. 

Members of Sacyr UK project team were joined by Senedd Member Julie Morgan MS, Sacyr’s Operations Director for the UK, Ireland and Northern Europe, Alejandro Mendoza Monfort, as well as David Powell, Project Director for Velindre University, and Carl James, Interim Chief Executive of Velindre NHS Trust, as well as local councillors and representatives of Welsh Government to celebrate this pivotal milestone in the project. 

Attendees were also treated to a special address from Welsh rugby legend, Jonathan ‘Jiffy’ Davies, who attended in recognition of his extensive work with the current Velindre Cancer Centre.

Following the ceremony, guest and the construction team were invited to enjoy a complimentary hog roast lunch provided by Sacyr UK, as well as Welsh cakes baked by Community Benefits Teams’ Workforce Development Co-ordinator, Hannah Jenkins.

Alejandro Mendoza Monfort, Sacyr’s Operations Director for the UK, Ireland and Northern Europe said: “It was fantastic to have so many people join us for the topping out ceremony and celebrate this milestone in the construction phase of the new Velindre Cancer Centre. 

“It was a special event to come together to appreciate and celebrate how far the project has come. It is really amazing to see it coming together and was great to have so many people attend to mark the milestone with us.”

As the project moves into the next stage of construction, more of the internal fit-out will start alongside preparing the building for commissioning ahead of its opening in Spring 2027.