DPP are delighted to have secured planning permission for the Urgent Treatment Centre at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle upon Tyne.
The new centre will provide same day care for people who have a healthcare need that cannot wait, treating illness or injury that cannot be dealt with at home or with the support of a pharmacist. The proposals are designed to alleviate the pressure of the existing Emergency Department.
DPP advised Robertsons and the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundations Trust on the planning strategy for the site, undertaking extensive pre-application discussions with the Council and submitting a separate application for enabling works which allowed site set up ahead of the planning permission being granted.
Designed by P+HS Architects, the centre is elegant and contemporary, with wave-like bronze aluminium fins and bronze mesh panels, which will be in keeping with both the Victorian and modern materials surrounding the site.
Once open, the centre will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The proximity to the main hospital will also allow for more flexible staffing and will provide access to additional services if needed. It will be a fantastic asset to the local community by supporting patients to receive the right care by the right person, in the right place, as quickly as possible. The application received unanimous approval at planning committee in March, subject to a legal agreement being signed.
Speaking about the project, DPP Director Jo Robison said:
This is a vital development in order to assist the RVI in dealing with urgent medical emergencies as soon as possible, and to alleviate pressure from the existing A&E department. DPP were able to work in collaboration with the Local Planning Authority and the client/consultant team in order to bring forward the enabling works in a timely manner, to ensure the new centre will be built before the end of 2025.
Image: P+HS Architects
