Plans for a new Day Case Unit at Hinckley and District Hospital are progressing, with proposals revealing the vision for the modern healthcare facility. The development aims to enhance surgical services in the area, replacing the existing Hinckley Cottage Hospital on Mount Road with a purpose-built facility.
A document published by the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Integrated Care Board (LLR ICB) outlines the rationale behind the new construction. It states: “The proposals include the replacement of the existing hospital that we know will be cherished by many local people. We have explored options to integrate the existing building into the scheme, but we have concluded that it is not viable. The layout of the existing hospital was not suitable for the services that previously existed within it (including x-ray and endoscopy services that will be re-provided within the new CDC), and it would not be suitable for Day Case Surgery services.”
The new facility is designed to accommodate double the number of Day Case Surgery patients compared to the existing hospital, increasing from approximately 1,000 to 2,000 patients per year. The proposed building will be designed to modern healthcare standards, ensuring efficiency, accessibility, and an improved patient experience. It will also meet current standards for air flow, ventilation, and infection control.
Acknowledging the historical significance of Hinckley Cottage Hospital, which opened in 1900, the LLR ICB has indicated that they hope to include a commemorative area to honor the legacy of the building.
The total cost of the new Day Case Unit is projected at £10.5 million. The facility will be constructed on the existing Hinckley and District Hospital site and will be connected to the recently established Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC). The new unit will provide a wider range of clinical specialties, including plastic surgery, general surgery, vascular surgery, ophthalmology, urology, podiatric surgery, and gynaecology, all within state-of-the-art facilities.
The commencement of construction is dependent on the outcome of the planning application. If planning permission is granted, work is expected to begin later this year.
This project marks a significant investment in local healthcare infrastructure, promising improved surgical services and enhanced patient care for the community.
