Fresh images have been released showing the revised plans for the new £1.5 billion Hillingdon Hospital in west London, a project that will replace the current facility once described by former Health Secretary Wes Streeting as the “worst I’ve seen”.
The new hospital is part of the first wave of hospital redevelopments under government plans. Hillingdon Hospital is one of a small number of schemes in this initial tranche and the only one in London. Hospitals in this wave are expected to start construction between now and 2030.
Design Updated to Meet New Guidance
The design of the proposed hospital has been refreshed to comply with new national guidance, which sets out how key areas should be designed and laid out, including emergency care, inpatient wards, operating theatres, maternity services, diagnostics and outpatient services. The guidance was developed with input from more than 1,000 clinicians, Royal Colleges, healthcare staff and patients.
Because the hospital has adopted the new requirements, the proposed building now looks different from what was previously approved, including being larger than earlier designs.
Larger Building with Single Rooms
The new hospital will include 538 overnight beds, all in single en-suite rooms, offering patients more privacy and comfort. The design is intended to be “future proof,” providing flexibility to adapt to advances in healthcare and changing patient needs in the years to come.
The new design will also provide a “better working environment for staff.” This is supported by having no basement, meaning staff will work in above-ground areas only, with access to natural light and daylight. The Trust says this will create “a more pleasant place to work.”
Energy Centre and Public Consultation
A new energy centre is also proposed to power the hospital. It will generate and manage the heat, cooling, steam and electricity needed across the site.
The Trust is now seeking views on the plans ahead of submitting a new planning application to Hillingdon Council. The public has until Sunday, December 13 to share their views.
Lesley Watts, Chief Executive of the Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “This is an opportunity to transform healthcare for generations to come. A new hospital will give us the environment and technology to deliver high-quality care and make a real difference to the experience of everyone who comes through our doors. I encourage our patients and local communities to look at the plans, attend an event and share their views so we can ensure the new hospital meets their needs.”
