West Cumberland Hospital secures £5.6m for new Renal and Gynaecology Units
Funding aims to modernise patient facilities and improve healthcare delivery
Last updated 6th Oct 2026
West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven is set to receive £5.6 million for the development of new Renal and Gynaecology units, as confirmed by NHS England.
The funding, secured by North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (NCIC), aims to address outdated infrastructure and create modern facilities that enhance patient care and service delivery.
Gavin Evans, Executive Director of Digital, Estates & Facilities at NCIC, emphasised the importance of the investment, stating that it will provide welcoming environments for patients and improve the workspace for staff across West Cumbria.
Josh MacAlister MP expressed his delight at the funding, having lobbied for the financial support necessary to proceed with these crucial developments.
The Renal unit will feature seven additional dialysis stations to meet rising demand for haemodialysis, ensuring better capacity for the next decade. The Gynaecology department's new facilities will improve privacy and dignity for women, separating maternity and gynaecology services.
Annaliese Hunter from Renal services and Janice Stringer, a dialysis patient, highlighted the benefits of these new facilities, recognising the positive impact on both patients and staff.
Lisa Lowe, a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Gynaecology also welcomed the funding, noting that the existing co-location of services in Women’s Outpatients has been a longstanding issue now addressed by this investment.
With preparatory work already underway, West Cumberland Hospital eagerly anticipates the project’s commencement.