Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has announced the completion of the final phase of a major multimillion-pound redevelopment programme.
The opening of new, state-of-the-art operating theatres at Hexham General Hospital marks a significant milestone for patient care and surgical services.
All three phases have been delivered by Integrated Health Projects (IHP), the healthcare joint venture between VINCI Building and Sir Robert McAlpine.
The newly opened theatres provide a larger, multi-purpose space, allowing the Trust to deliver a wider range of procedures. Equipped with the latest technology, the facilities have been designed to improve efficiency, safety and the overall experience for both patients and staff.
The redevelopment programme, which has taken place over the past four years, represents a major investment in the future of local healthcare. The final phase focused on modernising surgical facilities to meet growing demand and support high-quality, modern care.
The theatres have been designed with patient comfort and staff wellbeing in mind, featuring improved layouts, enhanced infection prevention measures and advanced surgical equipment.
Mark Gardham, Sector Director at Sir Robert McAlpine, said: “We are proud to have delivered the final stage of these transformational facilities for patients in Hexham. These works have shown how successful projects can be when all stakeholders are fully engaged and aligned in their vision, and testament to the relationship and trust we have built with Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.”
Marion Dickson OBE, Northumbria Healthcare's executive director of nursing, midwifery and AHPs, said: "Completing this redevelopment programme and opening our new theatres is a major achievement for the trust. These facilities give our teams more space, improved equipment and a better environment in which to deliver care to the local people of Hexham and beyond.
"These new theatres will make a real difference to our patients and our teams. Having modern, purpose-built facilities means we can work more efficiently, support new ways of working and continue to provide safe, high-quality care.”
Damon Kent, managing director of Northumbria Healthcare Facilities Management, added: "The trust worked closely with clinical teams, estates staff and external partners to ensure the redevelopment met the needs of patients now and into the future. It’s been a really impressive programme delivered by multiple organisations - it’s a credit to all involved."
Simon Allan, board director of Identity Consult added: “The opening of the theatres marks the successful conclusion of the programme which has spanned over a four-year period. During this time, Identity Consult team has been delighted to support Northumbria Healthcare Facilities Management in project and programme delivery, on this significant investment for the trust. It has been a truly collaborative effort involving a wide range of consultees, stakeholders, designers and contractors, including IHP as the principle contractor.
"Perhaps the most pleasing aspect of the project to date from our perspective has been the spirit in which all parties have worked together to achieve a shared vision; the facilities now opening are fantastic and a should be a source of pride for all involved."
