The Evelina London Children’s Hospital – part of Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust – has submitted plans for a new hospital building.
Evelina is the second largest provider of children’s healthcare services in London and one of only two specialist children’s hospitals in the capital.
According to the hospital, it cares for over 103,000 children and young people every year, while its neonatal unit sees around 1,000 babies every 12 months.
Now aiming to construct what it calls “a bigger and even better” children’s hospital, Evelina London has submitted its proposal to Lambeth Council for planning permission.
The new structure would be joined to the existing children’s hospital building, providing space to expand specialist heart and lung services. Subject to consultation, the hospital says, these services are expected to move to an expanded Evelina London from Royal Brompton Hospital, in around six years’ time.
The mooted new building would also include:
- Around 100 beds, and up to 20 additional critical care beds
- A new suite of operating theatres / procedure rooms
- Specialist imaging facilities
- More areas for patients and families to relax in, including a roof terrace.
It’s expected that the development, if approved, would have a focus on being a “bright, welcoming” and flexible space, and utilise the latest health technology.
It’s hoped the expansion would reduce waiting times and make more services available in one space, to improve the overall experiences and outcomes for patients.
Marian Ridley, Director of Evelina London, said: “Our expansion is vital to meet the growing demand for our specialist care. A bigger hospital will mean we can meet the needs of the sickest children with the most complex conditions from across the country.
“During this exciting planning phase, we want to ensure we are putting patients, families and staff at the heart of what we do by listening to all of their views, remaining at the forefront of innovation and ensuring we can adapt as we continue to grow.”
As well as working with architects to develop the plans, Evelina London has also consulted with staff, patients and their families, and the local community – developing the designs through feedback with stakeholders.
