RUH Bath starts construction on £12m Urgent Treatment Centre
New centre aims to enhance patient experience and streamline emergency services
Construction will commence on Monday, 28th September, for a £12 million Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) at the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust.
This development represents a significant investment in urgent and emergency care at RUH Bath, aimed at providing improved facilities and a better environment for patients with non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries.
The new purpose-built centre will replace the RUH's current UTC, currently situated within its Emergency Department.
By relocating the UTC, the hospital intends to improve capacity and reduce crowding in the Emergency Department, facilitating safer care for patients and staff.
Separating urgent but non-life-threatening care from life-saving interventions is expected to reduce waiting times.
Clinical teams are working to streamline operations and simplify the patient journey, aiming for efficient care and quicker treatment for patients.
The completion of the new centre is scheduled for late December 2026.
John Palmer, Managing Director of the RUH, emphasised the impact of the new UTC, stating, "The start of construction work marks a major milestone in the RUH’s plans to further improve its urgent and emergency care services for our patients."
The modular buildings, provided by Vanguard Healthcare Solutions, promise better privacy, enhanced infection prevention, and improved working conditions, among other benefits.
Simon Squirrell, UK Business Director at Vanguard Healthcare Solutions, expressed delight at partnering with RUH, saying, "Our focus is on providing a high-quality clinical facility that supports the Trust’s ambitions for urgent and emergency care."
Throughout the construction period, RUH will continue operating its existing UTC and Emergency Department as normal, ensuring continuity of care.
With contributions from the Department of Health and Social Care, the new UTC reflects the RUH's commitment to delivering efficient and effective care.