The first turf was cut on a £9 million project to build a new Outpatient Department at West Cornwall Hospital in Penzance last Wednesday.

Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust’s Chief Executive Steve Williamson, was given the honour at the groundbreaking ceremony which marked the start of a 14-month construction programme.

From left to right: Karl Martin, Kier; Dr Francis Old, RCHT; Lewis Saundry, RCHT: Nicola Goddard, RCHT; Chris Couch, Kier, Louise Richards, RCHT; Steve Williamson, RCHT; Cllr Jim McKenna; Paul Sylvester, RCHT; Allister Grant, RCHT. (NHS)

The modern, fit-for-purpose outpatient unit is due to be completed in March 2025 and open to patients in April 2025. 

The investment reflects the key role West Cornwall Hospital plays in the provision of acute hospital care in Cornwall and the Royal Cornwall Hospitals’ commitment to delivering more care close to home.

How the new Outpatient department will look (NHS)

The new building will provide modern and technically-advanced facilities in which staff will be able to provide face-to-face and virtual care in an accessible and patient-focused environment.

It will also be the first major project on an RCHT site to have solar panels incorporated into the design to generate sustainable energy to support the unit.

Read more in next week’s Voice Newspaper.