Southend Hospital's new emergency department extension opens
The project cost £8.9 million
The emergency department at Southend Hospital has been extended, in a £8.9 million project.
The purpose-built extension has been designed to improve patient experience and reduce wait times.
Fiona Ryan, Southend Hospital Chief Executive, said: “This project represents a significant investment in the future of emergency care at Southend Hospital and means we can deliver faster, more coordinated care for our sickest patients.”
The extension includes 10 Rapid Assessment and Treatment bays - five more than before. This is where clinical teams quickly assess and treat patients arriving by ambulance.
Five large adult resuscitation bays have been created - replacing four smaller, outdated bays - along with a dedicated paediatric bay. The expanded paediatric area offers more space, improved privacy and allows parents to stay with their child during treatment.
Natasha Kerrigan, Chief Estates and Infrastructure Officer for the Trust, said: “The opening of this extension marks an important milestone for Southend Hospital and, most importantly, for the patients and communities we serve. Developed in close partnership with our clinical teams, the expanded Emergency Department provides a modern, welcoming environment that supports the delivery of safe, timely and high-quality care.
“It also gives our staff greater flexibility and capacity to respond to increasing demand, ensuring the department is better equipped to meet the needs of local people both now and in the future.”
As part of the development, the Paediatric Assessment Unit (PAU) will move from Neptune Ward into the new space this autumn. It will be located alongside the children’s emergency department.