The sod-cutting ceremony takes place for the multi-million pound expansion of New Cross Hospital’s state-of-the-art pathology centre

Work has begun by GRAHAM on the multi-million pound expansion of New Cross Hospital’s state-of-the-art pathology centre.

The extension is being constructed adjacent to the south entrance at New Cross Hospital and will house a number of centralised pathology services.

When finished, the building will provide a central pathology hub, serving The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust.

The new ‘hub and spoke model’ will enable pathology services across the multiple hospital sites to work together more collaboratively than before.

This will result in an enhanced service for staff and offers patients a centre of excellence providing all aspects of a quality pathology service.

John Maguire, GRAHAM Business Development Director, said:

“Our extensive experience across the full spectrum of healthcare means we are well equipped to deliver these works at New Cross Hospital to the highest quality, focusing on value, cost certainty, and a drive for efficiency savings. Today’s ground breaking ceremony marks a key milestone in delivering this new and important facility for the local community.”

David Loughton, Chief Executive of RWT, said:

“This is a very exciting and significant project for the Black Country. Pathology services are an essential part of the efficient and safe running of hospital and GP services, analysing the hundreds of tests that are done for patients every day. The new service will have the very latest in specialist technology and deliver better value, high quality care for patients across the Black Country.”

The centre will carry out tests such as; fertility tests, blood/urine analysis, tests for infection and detecting cancer.

A new drop-off zone and turning circle will also be created next to the hospital’s south entrance, allowing access for ambulances and radiology deliveries.