Plans for the development of a state-of-the-art Emergency Department (ED) and Critical Care Unit (CrCU) have been given the green light by local planners. The hospital trust’s reserved matters application, which was submitted to Dorset Council, has now been approved, granting full planning permission for the construction of these new facilities.
As part of the Government’s New Hospital Programme, the trust’s Your Future Hospital programme aims to expand the existing facilities in Dorchester to meet the growing demand for healthcare services. The new ED and CrCU will be situated on the site of the former Damers First School, following the demolition of the building over the summer.
The upcoming facilities will be equipped with a range of advanced features, including a rooftop helipad, dedicated areas for major and minor injuries, a mental health facility, an emergency pediatrics area, 24 critical care beds, and a specialized assessment area for ambulance arrivals.
Dorset County Hospital’s Chief Executive, Matthew Bryant, expressed his excitement about this significant milestone, stating that the development will provide larger, state-of-the-art facilities to deliver life-saving care to patients. Furthermore, the new facilities are expected to improve patient care, attract and retain skilled healthcare professionals, and create a positive impact on the local population.
Subject to full business case approval by the Government, the main construction work is scheduled to commence in 2024. The design of the ED and CrCU has been carefully developed by global design practice BDP, with a focus on creating flexible spaces that can adapt to changing patterns of demand. By reducing pressure on these services, the aim is to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in emergency and critical care delivery.
Tilbury Douglas, the contracted construction company, expressed their enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing their readiness to move forward with enabling works and the main New Hospital Programme scheme on site. The planning application also includes the trust’s long-term aspirations to improve the hospital’s main entrance and provide integrated care and key worker housing for staff.
With the approval granted, the construction of the new ED and CrCU brings hope for improved healthcare services and a brighter future for the residents of Dorset.
FAQ
When will the construction of the new Emergency Department and Critical Care Unit begin?
Subject to full business case approval by the Government, construction is set to commence in 2024.
What features will the new facilities include?
The new facilities will incorporate a rooftop helipad, purpose-built spaces for major and minor injuries, a mental health facility, an emergency pediatrics area, 24 critical care beds, and a specialized assessment area for ambulance arrivals.
How will the design of the new unit accommodate changing patterns of demand?
The design of the new unit focuses on creating flexible spaces that can adapt to changing patterns of demand, aiming to reduce pressure on emergency and critical care services.
Who is responsible for the construction of the new facilities?
The new facilities will be constructed by contractor Tilbury Douglas, while the design has been developed by global design practice BDP.