This transformative project, supported by funding from the Department of Health and Social Care with an investment of £19.8 million, will significantly enhance safety, accessibility, and patient experience.
The redevelopment will see the DCC relocated from its current position on the seventh floor of the East Ward Block to a purpose-built facility adjacent to the South Block, co-located with the ground-floor theatre complex. The new unit will include a 22-bed ward in a modern, extended facility with direct external access, improving safety for potential evacuations and enhancing patient experience by providing access to outside spaces.
The project includes a significant extension to the side and front of the building. Construction is set to begin early in the new year, with completion expected by mid-2026. Temporary construction huts will be installed on-site, requiring some car parking spaces to be repurposed, and road access between Gate 5 and Gate 6 will be restricted. Site hoardings will ensure safety and clearly define construction zones.
This work follows the enabling phase currently underway to relocate and refurbish the Surgical Same Day Emergency Care (SSDEC) department and the former Discharge Lounge. These preparatory projects are a critical part of the Trust’s broader redevelopment strategy, ensuring services are positioned to support future growth and modernisation.
Other significant investments include the Elective Orthopaedic Hub (MEOC), which was completed in December 2023 at a cost of £14.9 million. This development converted existing space at Mexborough to create ward and operating suite support areas, alongside the construction of a modular theatre suite integrated into the existing building.
The Bassetlaw Emergency Village, a £23 million reconfiguration and expansion of the Bassetlaw Hospital Emergency Department and at Montagu Hospital, the Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) is progressing as part of a £24 million multi-phased scheme. The first two phases, which included the creation of an endoscopy suite with ultrasound facilities, were recently completed on time and budget. Phase 3, involving the construction of a fixed CT/MRI facility, is underway and expected to finish by March 2025.
Richard Parker OBE, Chief Executive at DBTH, said: “The relocation and redevelopment of the Department of Critical Care is a key part of our commitment to modernising Doncaster Royal Infirmary and enhancing the care we provide to our most vulnerable patients.
“Alongside the relocation and refurbishment of the SSDEC and former Discharge Lounge, this project represents an important step in our long-term strategy to create a safer, more accessible, and patient-centred hospital. With support from the Department of Health and Social Care, and partners, this investment will help us to deliver outstanding care for years to come.”
Dr Kirsty Edmondson Jones, Director of Infrastructure at DBTH, added: “The redevelopment of the Department of Critical Care and the enabling works for SSDEC and the former Discharge Lounge are critical components of our long-term vision to improve and modernise Doncaster Royal Infirmary.
“These projects are designed to enhance patient and colleague experiences while building a hospital fit for the future. We are grateful for the continued support and understanding of our patients, colleagues, and visitors as we undertake this vital work.”
Regular updates will be provided as construction progresses, including details about any temporary changes to access and parking arrangements.
