Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has announced a new milestone in the development of the new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at the Mansfield Community Hospital site.

In February this year work commenced on the site in Stockwell Gate, Mansfield, and the trust revealed recently that the derelict building formerly known as Victoria Hospital has now been completely demolished.

This work opens way for building to start later this summer, with a grand opening of the new CDC site anticipated for spring next year.

Hospital patients have already benefited from more than 38,000 extra diagnostic tests before the first brick has been laid for Nottinghamshire’s first CDC.

Once fully operational, Mansfield CDC will provide a one-stop shop for patients across Nottinghamshire to access the tests and investigations they need in a single visit to help them receive an ‘all clear’ or a diagnosis sooner.

As well as delivering thousands more tests each week, the CDC will also create hundreds of job opportunities.

Throughout the demolition process, the trust has prioritised sustainability and community benefits.

As a result, the demolition has achieved a 90% recycle rate on the waste generated on site, with approximately 60% of the loose items within the building having been reclaimed to be reused and recycled.

Additionally, the building’s rubble will be crushed to form the levels for the rebuild works, saving 1,500 tons of imported material. By involving four local contractors in the demolitions works, the trust ensured the investment benefits the local community.

Richard Mills, chief financial officer at the trust, said: “Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our demolition process, where we’ve recycled and reclaimed a significant portion of materials.

“The new site will be built with improved insulation and stricter air leakage limits which will minimise energy losses, leading to a more-comfortable and energy-efficient building.

“Mansfield CDC will also have solar PV panels installed, which will provide energy savings, making the project both environmentally friendly and cost effective”

In May 2024, the trust submitted an updated planning application for Mansfield CDC.

The new plans outline the expansion of diagnostic services, ensuring faster and more-convenient access to a variety of tests and investigations.

The trust is anticipating a planning application decision in early September.

Dr James Thomas, the trust’s clinical lead for the project, said: “Our new CDC site is designed with the future in mind, incorporating advanced technologies and sustainable practices.

“These initiatives will not only reduce our carbon footprint, but also ensure a high standard of care for our patients.”