Royal Sussex County Hospital

Willmott Dixon Interiors used a modular, off-site solution to create a major extension to the A&E department at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton.

The two-storey Urgent Treatment Centre is linked to the existing A&E department. It improves the care environment for patients receiving urgent treatment and is a key resource for managing the high levels of demand for A&E services at the hospital.

As part of the brief, our team completed groundworks, piling and foundation works in preparation for the modular unit's arrival. It was manufactured off-site and delivered ready for our team to carry out the fit-out ready for clinical use, with all works delivered in a live hospital environment.

The fit-out included creating five ground floor treatment rooms inside the unit, a new reception waiting room, accessible toilets and a utility room. There are also offices and a training/simulation suite on the first floor, with multi-functional space for hot desking and hosting small meetings.

New capacity

Our project has increased capacity within the main A&E for patients, creating a better patient flow through all parts of the department. It follows on from the opening of nine extra cubicles in the main A&E to care for patients who are more critically injured or unwell.

Graham Shaw, Managing Director at Willmott Dixon Interiors, said:

“Modular construction is enabling us to deliver a faster and more efficient build which minimises disruption for NHS staff. The new building will supplement the hospital’s existing A&E facilities, providing access to urgent treatment and additional clinical space, as well as supporting a better patient flow through all parts of the department.”

James Millar, Deputy Director of Capital Development and Property at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“This is a really positive development that will ease pressure on the hospital, leaving other departments free to treat the most serious cases, and is in line with the NHS Long Term Plan. Thanks to careful planning and partnership working, the A&E Department remained fully operational during the building works. We look forward to patients experiencing the improved environment that this new facility can offer. This is part of the Trust’s dedication to delivering the best possible care environments across all our hospitals.”

The project was procured via SCAPE, one of the UK’s leading public procurement authorities, and was delivered by Willmott Dixon Interiors on behalf of Brighton & Sussex University Hospital NHS Trust. The project team included Noviun Architects, Campbell Reith Consulting Engineers, Van Zyl and de Villiers and Ward Williams Associates.

Mark Robinson, Group Chief Executive at SCAPE said:

“The NHS and healthcare system is currently facing serious challenges with a considerable pull on resources and the Urgent Treatment Centre will be invaluable in supporting these high levels of demand whilst improving levels of care. SCAPE is delighted to have supported our partner, Willmott Dixon in accelerating this project forward to create positive change for the hospital and local community.”