The construction of the new £15m Endoscopy Unit at the Cumberland Infirmary has passed its halfway milestone, marking significant progress in this exciting project.
Once complete, the new endoscopy unit will be able to treat more patients, helping to reduce our waiting lists and improve timely diagnosis, particularly for cancers.
The new unit, which is planned to open to patients at the end of March 2025, will include five clinical rooms and an outpatient area, enabling more patients to receive endoscopy procedures locally instead of travelling to Newcastle.
The Trust is pleased to share a timelapse video showcasing the build from the initial groundbreaking to its current state, highlighting the rapid and effective work being carried out by our construction partner Ergéa.
Since the ceremonial start of the project in August, the site has undergone extensive development. The original site has been excavated, and the second floor of the building and glazing is now in place. This state-of-the-art facility is set to transform endoscopy services in North Cumbria.
Some key benefits include:
- Patients will be able to access endoscopy faster - more patients will receive their diagnostic procedure within six weeks of referral in line with national standards
- The additional rooms will have capacity to provide a further 30 lists per week avoiding unnecessary travel outside of the region
- The facility will meet the highest modern standards, positioning it for accreditation by the Joint Advisory Group (JAG) on GI Endoscopy
- It will also bring the Cumberland Infirmary standards in line with West Cumberland Hospital following the redevelopment in 2015
Mr Daya Karat, Consultant Surgeon at NCIC, said:
“It's incredibly encouraging to see how far we’ve come. The new facility promises to deliver faster diagnoses, meeting the rising demand for our services, and enhancing patient care. The additional clinic rooms and improved training facilities will also benefit our dedicated staff.
"I am looking forward to the completion of this project, which not only enhances endoscopy services but also frees up space within the main hospital for the expansion of other departments, further benefiting both staff and patients.”
Ergéa UK, in collaboration with Actiform, continues to utilize the latest Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) to ensure the build meets high environmental standards and complies with national healthcare regulations.
Craig Farrow, Commercial Director at Ergéa said:
"We’re proud to be part of this project, which marks a significant milestone in our partnership with the Trust. Together, we’ve developed an efficient and cost-effective solution tailored to meet and exceed the requirements of the new Endoscopy department that will expand the Trust's capacity, enhance the quality of procedure rooms, elevate the patient experience for diagnosis and treatment, and play a key role in reducing waiting list backlogs."
Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the grand opening in Spring 2025.