Bluebell Ward

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Refurbishment at Walton Hospital in Chesterfield.

Client: Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Architect: CTD Architects
Programme Duration: 35 weeks
Value: £3.6 million

This transformative project, represents a significant step forward in improving inpatient mental healthcare facilities for 12 older adults.

This project was commissioned by Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust as part of the Government’s Making Room for Dignity Programme, which aims to replace dormitory accommodation in mental health facilities with private, single en-suite rooms. This initiative ensures safer, more dignified spaces for patients and contributes to a nationwide improvement in mental health care standards.

Highlights of the Project

  • Procured through the PPF Framework, leveraging a collaborative approach to ensure cost efficiency and timely delivery.
  • The project team brought extensive local NHS experience, having previously delivered the Wellbeing Hub at Chesterfield Royal Hospital.
  • Early engagement with the Trust and project managers, Edge, enabled the development of a robust cost plan that balanced quality with value for money.
  • Second-stage collaboration with designers, CTD Architects, and stakeholders refined a construction methodology tailored to the project’s requirements.
  • Stakeholder communication was a cornerstone of the project, with daily liaison by the senior site manager, weekly reviews, on-site information displays, and a strong focus on social value engagement.

Technical and Construction Excellence

The 35-week programme required meticulous planning and precise execution to transform a vacant ward into a modern, patient-centred facility. The refurbished ward now includes:

  • 12 en-suite rooms, creating a private and therapeutic environment for service users.
  • Enhanced infrastructure to meet the safety, privacy, and accessibility needs of older adults.
  • Thoughtful design and construction that optimized cost without compromising quality.

The Bluebell Ward is part of a larger investment of £150 million across Derbyshire under the Making Room for Dignity Programme. It showcases the potential of thoughtful design and construction to positively impact mental healthcare delivery.