Major transformation of Harrogate District Hospital entrance to begin with improved facilities for patients and visitors

The ambitious project will create a modern, welcoming and fully accessible entrance, improving the experience for the thousands of patients, visitors and staff who use the hospital every day.

Planning permission for the scheme was granted in February this year, with construction due to get under way in early September.

The redevelopment is expected to be completed by spring 2027.

The trust is delivering the project in partnership with property development and investment company noviniti and One Retail, the retail division of Compass Group UK & Ireland.

Hospital bosses have stressed that access to the hospital will be maintained throughout the build, with the current main entrance remaining open while work takes place.

They say disruption will be kept to a minimum, with any temporary changes clearly signposted to ensure patients and visitors can continue to access services safely.

The redesigned entrance will provide a brighter and more welcoming arrival space, alongside improved accessibility, enhanced reception and self-check facilities, additional seating areas and increased toilet provision, including a Changing Places toilet.

New retail and refreshment facilities will also form part of the development, including a Costa Coffee store and an M&S Food, offering greater choice for patients, visitors and staff.

Sustainability has also been placed at the heart of the project, with design features intended to reduce environmental impact and support the Trust's long-term commitment to greener healthcare.

The redevelopment is being funded primarily through commercial investment, with the trust confirming that no money will be diverted from frontline care, patient services or staff budgets.

As preparations continue, the hospital's Café Bistro, located in the main entrance, will close at the end of September.

WHSmith closed in July ahead of the redevelopment, while food and drink will continue to be available from Herriots Restaurant on the first floor.

Jonathan Coulter, Chief Executive of Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Coming into a hospital as a patient, carer or visitor can be an anxious and emotional experience.

"We want everyone who walks through our doors to feel supported and reassured from the moment they arrive.

"This project has been designed to create a space that meets the needs of a modern healthcare setting while improving the experience for everyone who uses it.

"This redevelopment will help us create a more welcoming and comfortable environment, alongside providing high-quality retail facilities for patients, visitors and our dedicated staff.

"We are committed to ensuring patients remain at the heart of everything we do, and providing long-term value for the Trust and its community."

Jonathan Houlston, Chief Executive of noviniti, said the company was pleased to be supporting the Trust's transformation plans.

He said: "Working alongside One Retail, this new development will significantly enhance the experience for staff, patients and visitors by providing improved retail facilities and a more welcoming, accessible route into the hospital.

"We look forward to welcoming everyone through the new doors when the development opens in spring 2027."

Andy Jones, Managing Director of One Retail, added: "This is a really exciting project that will deliver true change for those visiting the hospital.

"The new entrance will offer a range of high-quality food, drink and retail options that offer both convenience and high street familiarity.

"By bringing trusted high street brands such as Costa Coffee and M&S Food to the hospital, we will create greater choice and a welcoming environment that helps make time spent on site a little easier and more comfortable for everyone."