A topping-out ceremony is traditionally held when the last beam or its equivalent is placed atop a structure during its construction

Thirty people donned hi-vis jackets and hardhats to get a glimpse of the under-construction Chiswick Health Centre at a recent topping-out ceremony.

Main contractor, Willmott Dixon, hosted representatives from NHS Property Services (NHSPS), Hounslow Council, North West London Integrated Care Board, the local Primary Care Network, and the three GP practices which will be operating out of the facility once it opens.

And the brisk weather did not deter the crowd, who made speeches, undertook a guided tour, and celebrated the construction milestone with cake and coffee.

Equally, it was an important opportunity to highlight the centre’s various innovations, green spaces, sustainable building practices, and materials, and over 50 affordable housing units that will be available on the site for NHS workers.

Once operational, the clinic will continue to host the three GP practices – West4GPs, Chiswick Family Practice, and Chiswick Health Practice. It will also be the base for Chiswick Primary Care Network and community healthcare staff delivering a range of services to over 60,000 patients.

Chiswick Health Centre will also see carbon emissions reduced by 77% and greater biodiversity, with landscaped courtyards, a fifth-floor garden terrace, and a public community green space.

An artist’s impression of the building once it is completed

Adrian Powell, director of Iinvestment and development management at NHSPS, said: “Chiswick Health Centre is a major project that has brought together many stakeholders, and to be here today celebrating this milestone is a massive collaborative achievement.

“I am delighted that we’re progressing well with the build and I’m look forward to seeing the finished health centre welcome patients early next year.”

Councillor Samia Chaudhary, Hounslow cabinet member for adult social care, public health and transformation; and Councillor Sue Sampson, cabinet member for housing and homelessness, added: “We were delighted to attend the topping-out ceremony of the new Chiswick Health Centre.

“This redevelopment project marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing essential services and support to our NHS key workers while addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in our area.

“The partnership between the London Borough of Hounslow and NHSPS exemplifies what can be achieved when entities come together with a shared vision and purpose.”

More than 30 stakeholders and members of the project team attended the ceremony