The construction of a cutting-edge Accident and Emergency (A&E) department at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary has reached its completion. The modern facility is scheduled to commence operations this autumn, catering to patients. The purpose-built A&E, operational around the clock, has been tailored to meet the urgent and emergency healthcare needs of the residents of Huddersfield and its environs, ensuring the delivery of top-tier medical assistance.
Upon its opening for patient care, all the services presently situated in the existing A&E on North Drive will be relocated to the new establishment on South Drive. This new A&E facility comes as a much-needed upgrade to the outdated department that traces its origins back to the 1960s. Positioned afresh on South Drive, the location offers convenient access via Acre Street and provides ample parking for both cars and ambulances.
The HRI’s new A&E encompasses extensive treatment zones for major and minor cases, an exclusive space dedicated to pediatric care, and specialised sections for resuscitation and x-ray procedures. It also incorporates designated areas for family caregivers, along with a sensitively positioned bereavement suite. The design of the facility takes inspiration from the local surroundings and has been shaped through active engagement with the community.
Thanks to its novel placement, the new A&E can be seamlessly connected via a corridor to various services within the main hospital. These encompass CT and MRI scanning facilities, operating theatres, as well as ward sections.
Anna Basford, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Transformation at Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust (CHFT) said: “We are absolutely delighted to have completed the construction of the new A&E. This is a huge moment for all of us at CHFT, and a testament to the hard work of everyone involved in the project.
“There’s a lot to do over the coming weeks, as we prepare for the opening. We look forward to inviting members of the public to come and have a look round before it opens and will soon be sharing details of our public open day.”
Dr Mark Davies, Consultant in Emergency Medicine and Clinical Lead for the A&E development at CHFT, said: “This is a pivotal moment for the project, and a step closer towards opening this fantastic facility.
“The new, full-service Accident and Emergency department will be staffed by specialist doctors and nurses trained in emergency medicine.
“It will enable the hospital to better meet the needs of the people of Huddersfield and the surrounding area.”
