An artist’s impression of how the emergency department could look

Willmott Dixon is increasing its presence at Dorset County Hospital after been selected to remodel and expand the emergency department.

Procured using the SCAPE framework, the new emergency department at the Dorchester hospital site will allow Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust to accommodate a rise in patient numbers. The work involves two new extensions; one to create a new entrance and the other to expand the emergency department wards into the existing courtyard area. Sustainability will be at the heart of the project, with the building being designed to the BREEAM ‘Very Good’ specification.

It’s the second scheme for Willmott Dixon at the hospital’s Dorchester site. Earlier this year, it was contracted by health and care property developer Prime to build a seven storey, 654 space car park for patients, visitors and staff spanning seven floors.

Richard Poulter, managing director for Willmott Dixon’s Central South region:

“We are delighted to start our second project on the Dorchester site for Dorset County Hospital, delivering a cutting-edge remodel and expansion of the existing emergency department. Once complete, the facility will provide a platform for Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust to continue delivering their outstanding service within the local community.”

Mark Robinson, SCAPE group chief executive:

“Willmott Dixon has a proven track record in delivering high-quality healthcare facilities, and using the speed, certainty and embedded social value requirements of the SCAPE framework ensures the local community benefits are maximised at every stage. By designing low-carbon solutions in from the beginning, the building will be highly sustainable and support our collective efforts to build back greener.”

The project marks the latest in a series of new, cutting edge healthcare facilities built by Willmott Dixon. During the spring, the company handed over the £48.9M Pears Building to the Royal Free Charity, UCL and the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust. It will become the new home of the UCL Institute of Immunity and Transplantation and one of the largest patient-focused immunology centres in Europe.