Final designs have been unveiled for phase two of the ongoing redevelopment of West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven.
For the first time, detailed plans as well as an artist’s impression have been shared for the proposed £40 million project.
The ambitious scheme, if approved, will replace up to 40% of the original hospital and build upon the £90m investment from phase one of the project which was completed in 2015. The new build will bring a huge upgrade in facilities for both patients and staff creating an improved environment while retaining bed capacity and services for the site.
The new build will include: a short stay paediatrics area, a care of the elderly ward, a specialist palliative care/step down ward and a stroke/rehabilitation ward.
Plans also include the refurbishment of existing areas including Gynaecology services, which will include a separate early pregnancy suite. This will offer pregnant women and families privacy from the other clinics which are run by the Gynaecology team.
The Maternity unit will also benefit from the redevelopment as the post-natal ward will now be housed alongside the Delivery suite and the Special Care Baby Unit. This will offer women a much improved environment in which to spend time with their baby in single ensuite rooms.
Establishing a suitable design for phase two has been a collaborative process between colleagues across the Trust, ensuring the design is clinically-led.
The design has been created and modified to accommodate the changing landscape within healthcare. Elderly care will have both four bedded areas as well as single rooms after feedback from patients stated they felt they benefitted from the company of others while recognising single rooms allow for privacy. All areas will adhere to infection prevention best practice.
Lyn Simpson Chief Executive at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“We’re extremely proud of the final design of phase two of West Cumberland Hospital. It incorporates feedback from clinical colleagues who will work in the areas and are therefore best placed to ensure the design works for both staff and patients. The plans focuses heavily on the needs and wellbeing of our patients including outdoor space and areas for increased privacy.”
The designs have been submitted for final approval from NHS England & Improvement and subject to that approval the construction will begin in early 2022. The project is expected to be complete by 2024.
You can now view the plans on the Trust’s website and they will also be on display in the following public area in Whitehaven:
Whitehaven library – from Thursday 23rd September the designs will be available to view at Lowther Street, Whitehaven CA28 7QZ.