Work has completed on a tailored package of upgrades to improve the internal environment for staff and patients at the Alnwick Infirmary Day Surgery.

The £1.8m transformation was designed by Medical Architecture for Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, and the works delivered by OPUS Building Services.

Robust appraisal of options

The project was driven by the need to replace air handling units for the endoscopy and day surgery theatre to ensure compliance with HBN and HTM guidance.

This was to provide sufficient air quality and hygiene for clinical safety, and a comfortable environment for staff and patients.

In collaboration with M&E consultants, Desco, and cost consultants, Turner and Townsend, Medical Architecture led a feasibility study to explore options for progressing various other functional and environmental improvements during the required downtime.

Strategy informed through engagement

Through a partnership approach with the trust, and a continuous programme of stakeholder engagement, the team arrived at a tailored package of improvements to meet the specific needs of the clinical team, set against a challenging budget and programme.

As works progressed and regular engagement with clinical teams continued on site, additional critical needs were highlighted to ensure that the working environment would meet both current and future requirements.

The collaborative nature of the project team ensured the impact on cost and programme was monitored and managed effectively throughout.

Improved environments for all

The outcome is an improved working environment for clinicians, with upgrades to equipment and infrastructure, including pendants, monitors, and lighting.

And the improved air quality and environmental conditions support wellbeing, both for staff, and for patients in the dedicated recovery spaces.

The interior aesthetic has also been improved, with new ceilings and updated finishes throughout.

The interior strategy was devised with input from stakeholders, with a focus on standardising specifications and finishes against recent work on the trust’s estate, making it simpler to manage and more cost effective to maintain long term.

Alex Ferguson, architect at Medical Architecture, said: “We understood the importance of efficient delivery, as returning the day surgery to operation was critical to a programme of work elsewhere in the estate.

“A close partnership and continuous communication between all parties was fundamental to achieving this.”

Craig Ternent, operational services manager at the trust, added: “The recent refurbishment of Alnwick Day Surgery has marked a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering high-quality patient care.

“The successful refurbishment is a testament to the collaboration of all teams involved.

“Staff and patient feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.”