Construction work on Dorset County Hospital's new emergency department and critical care unit has reached a major milestone with the structure "topping out" after the rooftop helipad was fitted. The development, delivered by contractor Tilbury Douglas, is part of the government's New Hospital Programme and is scheduled to open in 2027.
What the new building will provide
The two‑storey facility is intended to expand the hospital's capacity for urgent and intensive care. Key features confirmed by project partners include dedicated areas for children and young people, specialised spaces for patients experiencing mental health crises and a larger critical care unit.
| Feature | Current / Planned |
|---|---|
| Critical care beds | 11 → 16 (with scope for further increase) |
| Opening date | 2027 |
| Helipad cost | £2m (funded by the HELP Appeal) |
Helipad and patient transfer improvements
The unveiling of the aluminium rooftop helipad, manufactured in the Netherlands and installed by Bayards, was highlighted during the topping out. The helipad has been funded by the HELP Appeal and will allow air ambulances to transfer critically ill patients directly into the hospital, reducing transfer times for the most urgent cases.
“Reaching this milestone is a significant moment for everyone involved in delivering this vital healthcare facility,”
The new building will link to the existing hospital via a corridor, enabling the present emergency department area to be repurposed for same day emergency care once the move is complete.
Funding and local charitable support
The main capital cost of the project is being met through the New Hospital Programme. Separately, Dorset County Hospital Charity is raising an additional £2.5m to improve patient and family facilities and support staff wellbeing. Specifically, the charity aims to fund enhanced overnight accommodation for relatives and improved spaces for hospital staff.
- Contractor: Tilbury Douglas (appointed February 2025)
- Funding: Government New Hospital Programme; HELP Appeal contribution for helipad
- Additional charity target: Dorset County Hospital Charity raising £2.5m
This development forms part of a wider modernisation programme at Dorset County Hospital. The topping out brings the scheme a step closer to completion and signals forthcoming changes to how urgent and critical care are delivered for patients across Dorset.
