A PIONEERING £5million cancer centre which could help thousands of people battling the disease is a step closer to reality.

The flagship hub earmarked by charity Maggie’s will provide a green “oasis” in the grounds of Southampton General Hospital where sufferers and their families can seek solace, shelter and practical and emotional support.

Now the race is on to find the funds to make their dream a reality as charity bosses prepare to launch a major fundraising drive to raise the remaining funds to complete the project before opening in just over a year’s time.

Their call comes after Southampton City Council planners gave the green light for planning permission for the hub – which will be based next to the hospital’s oncology unit offering free services complimenting support already being provided by Macmillan.

The building, designed by architects AL_A, seeks to create a peaceful haven to uplift people’s spirits.

It will be surrounded by a wooded glade reflecting the scenery of the neighbouring New Forest featuring four distinct gardens created by London’s Olympic Park gardens designer Sarah Price.

Services offered to patients and their families includes psychological help, benefits advice, nutrition workshops, relaxation and stress management, art therapy, tai chi and yoga. There will be around six staff on the payroll, including a head of centre and psychologist, plus an army of volunteers supporting their work.

Maggie’s has already raised £1.4million and is relying on donations to meet the remaining cash before opening in 2017.

Laura Lee, chief executive at Maggie’s, said: “Southampton General Hospital sees 5,000 people newly diagnosed with cancer each year. The new centre will provide the highest quality support to people with cancer and their families across the region.”

Hospital chief executive Fiona Dalton hailed it a “fantastic facility” making a real difference for patients and their families.