Willmott Dixon has been awarded a contract by Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to deliver a £14.5 million extension and refurbishment of the Luton and Dunstable University Hospital's Emergency Department.

Procured using the SCAPE framework, it will provide a new CT scanning department, a new drop off area for visitors, as well as the remodelling and landscaping of external areas outside the main entrance.

Delivery in a live environment will be a key component of the programme, with the works taking place while the existing Emergency Department is operational. As part of the enabling works, Willmott Dixon has created an internal link tunnel so patients and staff can safely move between the hospital buildings.

Melanie Banks, Deputy Director of Redevelopment at Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said: "The extension and refurbishment of the Emergency Department at the Luton and Dunstable University Hospital is another step forward on a planned journey to redevelop the site. The project provides much needed space and facilities for patients, whilst allowing staff to continue to deliver high quality care.

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"In addition, the project enables advancements in technology and further paves the way to a more sustainable future."

Chris Tredget, Managing Director of Willmott Dixon's London & East region said: "We're delighted to be working with Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust on this extension and refurbishment to the Luton and Dunstable University Hospital's Emergency Department. Once complete, it will create better accessibility and critical facilities that will help improve healthcare for the local community."

Mark Robinson, Group Chief Executive at SCAPE, said : "The NHS is currently navigating an unprecedented pull on both resources that demands new and improved facilities and accelerated development schemes. At SCAPE, we’re grateful for the excellent service that is being provided in highly challenging circumstances from our NHS workers.

"We're extremely proud to be able to speed up the delivery of the much-needed extension and refurbishments our partner Willmott Dixon is delivering at Dunstable Hospital NHS Foundation Trust via SCAPE Construction - a direct award framework that enables collaboration, efficiency and savings in cost and time."