More than 450 local people have attended a series of events to find out more about West Norfolk’s newest hospital.
Throughout June and July, members of the public joined New QEH Showcase events online or at venues including Downham Market, Marshland St James, South Wootton, Swaffham, King’s Lynn and Hunstanton to hear from a team of specialists, see concept designs and ask questions.
They heard how the new hospital – set to open in 2032 – will transform the way care is delivered across West Norfolk, North Cambridgeshire, and South Lincolnshire.
The concept designs have been created by leading specialists in healthcare design using the national Hospital 2.0 standardised blueprint design for all new hospitals.
At the heart of the building design is a central communication spine, providing easy access to all parts of the hospital.
Critical clinical services – including Maternity, Theatres, Emergency Care, and Diagnostics – will be co-located in a dedicated central podium to allow for faster care. One of the standout features is the carefully planned separate corridors or ‘flows’ for patients, visitors, and facilities services, ensuring both privacy and efficiency across the site.
Attendees also got a glimpse into the future of care delivery, with digital ways of supporting patients through technology.
Peter Cox, Programme Director for the New QEH, said: ““What struck me most was the strength of feeling – the passion, the insight, the challenge. Our community isn’t just behind this project; they want to help shape it. The conversations we had were open, honest and inspiring – and they’re already influencing our thinking.”
Construction of the new main hospital building – to be located on the current main car park – is expected to begin in 2028, following completion of a new multi-storey car park.
