Kier Group has been appointed as the construction partner to build a new Hinchingbrooke Hospital in Huntingdon, the North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust has announced, marking a key stage in the project to replace parts of the site affected by reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac).
What has been decided
The trust said Kier would deliver a replacement hospital on the southern corner of the current site so vital services can continue operating during construction. The new facility is planned to feature single rooms for every inpatient and will remain home to core services including a full accident and emergency department and maternity care.
"Appointing our construction partner demonstrates that we are making real progress towards delivering a new hospital that will serve future generations," said Hannah Coffey, chief executive of the trust.
Work on a full business case and detailed plans will continue while a public consultation is under way, giving local people a chance to comment on proposals. The consultation is open until 16 August.
Context and timetable
Hinchingbrooke was one of four hospitals in the East of England where Raac — a lightweight concrete linked to structural problems — was identified in walls and roofs. The presence of Raac prompted restrictions and longer-term plans to replace affected buildings.
The site is included in the government’s first wave of its New Hospital Programme. The trust says the new hospital is expected to open by the end of 2032. Kier already carries out facilities management work at the hospital's treatment centre.
- Construction partner: Kier Group
- Site for new building: southern corner of existing Hinchingbrooke site
- Public consultation: closes 16 August
- Target opening: by the end of 2032
Local impact and next steps
The chosen construction approach — building on a new footprint within the existing site — is intended to keep clinical services running while the replacement is constructed. That will be particularly important for the Huntingdon area, which relies on the hospital for emergency and maternity services. The appointment of Kier moves the project from planning into delivery stages but does not yet commit to a construction start date or final budget, which will be set out as the programme advances through the business case process.
Stuart Togwell, chief executive of Kier Group, said the company viewed the project as both a privilege and a responsibility and emphasised a focus on creating a modern environment to support patients and staff.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Construction partner | Kier Group |
| Location | Hinchingbrooke Hospital, Huntingdon (southern corner of site) |
| Services retained on site | A&E and maternity |
| Consultation period | Open until 16 August |
| Expected opening | By end of 2032 |
As the consultation proceeds, the trust has said it will continue to work with staff, patients and local communities. Residents with concerns or questions should respond to the consultation or contact the trust directly to ensure their views are considered as plans progress.
