University of Gloucestershire and NHS announce new dental school and treatment hub
£3m centre aims to boost dental education and services in Gloucester
The University of Gloucestershire and NHS Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB) have secured funding for a dental school and treatment hub set to open within Gloucester's City Campus by 2027.
This development is part of the broader transformation of the former Debenhams building into a dynamic public asset, bringing educational, skills development, and community services to the city centre.
Named the Three Counties Dental School, this £3 million project includes the Gloucestershire Dental Treatment Hub, designed to enhance both community dental services and dental education programmes in the region.
Jo Jones, Deputy Head of School for Education, Health and Science for the University of Gloucestershire believes this will have a significant impact on the local community:
"It's widely known that there's a shortage in dental provision nationally and Gloucestershire is no exception to that whatsoever. And as I've said to you, the location of the three counties dental school within the city centre is going to be a fantastic opportunity for our community to access."
access dental care provision. It would also help address some of the workforce shortages within the region. So kind of two key aspects there that the facility will be able to offer.
Markey Building Services Limited has been contracted to build the development, representing a significant investment in local healthcare infrastructure.
The dental school will launch new dental care professional programmes, initially starting with Dental Hygiene courses, broadening the University of Gloucestershire’s health programme offerings and addressing the regional shortage of dental professionals.
These programmes will prepare students with specialised skills for careers in dentistry, equipping the next generation of dental care practitioners to meet pressing community needs.
From Spring 2027, the Gloucestershire Dental Treatment Hub will provide NHS community dental services, featuring six individual treatment rooms.
The hub will offer extended evening and weekend urgent care appointments, as well as regular treatment plans and routine appointments for eligible patients.
Construction preparations are set to start soon as the University continues to drive the regeneration of City Campus, underscoring its commitment to the health and wellbeing of communities across Gloucestershire.
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