Construction firm Kier has been appointed by Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to design and construct major new 16,700m2 clinical buildings at Luton & Dunstable (L&D) University Hospital.

Procured through the Crown Commercial Services (CCS) framework, this project will improve maternity, neonatal, theatres and critical care services, providing new high-tech facilities which will improve staff and patient experience and clinical outcomes.

The project includes the design and construction of a new acute services block and a new ward block which will house a delivery suite, the midwifery-led birthing unit, a neonatal intensive care unit with parent accommodation, an ambulatory surgical unit to support day case surgery, theatre suites and a critical care unit. A new five-storey link building will house three passenger lifts and will blend the new acute services and ward block with the existing hospital.

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The new buildings will be constructed in a live hospital environment in the heart of the existing hospital estate, with neighbouring clinical blocks continuing to run throughout the build programme.

The project showcases Kier's strength in sustainability and pre-fabrication. The team will use low-carbon concrete in the building frame and floor slabs while a number of building components will be pre-fabricated off site to reduce vehicle movements and carbon emissions. These include internal staircases with balustrades, and M&E pipework support and washroom panels. Kier will also use electrically-powered plant and machinery, including tower cranes and 360 degree dumper trucks.

Kier will deliver a number of environmental and social value commitments as part of the project in partnership with its supply chain. As well as creating new full-time job opportunities, 15 apprenticeships and work experience placements, the project will also divert some 7900 tonnes of waste from landfill and provide 350 hours of environmental education to subcontractors on site. Kier will also support Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Charity and host mental and wellbeing campaigns for staff and subcontractors.

The project will start on site in the next month and is due for completion in 2024.