People in Milton Keynes can now access specialist ophthalmology services at a new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) constructed by Ashe Construction, which is in the city centre alongside thecentre:mk shopping centre.
With ophthalmology making up 10-15% of outpatient activity at Milton Keynes Hospital, the new CDC at Lloyds Court will provide much-needed additional resource for the area, extending existing capacity and allowing forward-planning for growing future demand.
Ashe Construction was appointed by client Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust via a two-stage tender process through the Medium Works Framework, which we manage on behalf of contracting authority The Education Alliance.
Facilities designed with use in mind
To create 44 new consulting rooms with waiting areas, an operating room, staff facilities and a ground floor reception space, Ashe Construction has refurbished and fitting out two former retail and commercial units originally constructed in 1974.
To improve accessibility and reflect the nature of the new CDC, special signage has been installed. Meanwhile, public spaces have been colour coded to make sure those with visual impairments can navigate easily, with patients being guided through the building to the correct waiting area for consultation and treatment rooms.
Elsewhere, partitioning has been installed in line with hospital standards and Ashe has also installed a second elevator to allow greater access to the first-floor eye clinic.
A wider push for sustainability
Roof work has been extensive for this scheme, with the inclusion of installing energy efficiency measures such as air source heat pumps (ASHPs) and air handling units. Full data and heating controls are operating through a building management system, along with security measures including CCTV and intruder alarms.
This focus on sustainable measures reflects Ashe Construction’s wider work in the region, including recent work at Milton Keynes Hospital’s main site to upgrade windows, air handling units, and electrical infrastructure for the hospital’s sterilising system.
Andrew Morris, business development director at Ashe Construction, said: “We’ve been busy working on several NHS projects where we’ve improved access to much-needed healthcare facilities. By bringing them into town centres, they will make a huge difference to the communities they serve.”
Our framework manager Elliott Talbot said: “This is the latest in a number of schemes taking place across the Milton Keynes healthcare landscape that have been procured through our portfolio of frameworks. This goes to reflect the ongoing challenges the NHS faces, needing to simultaneously expand service provision while also improving and futureproofing their estates – all while improving energy efficiency.
“That’s why effective procurement routes are so important – connecting NHS and other public sector clients with the best specialists to deliver their specific schemes. Not only does this ensure complete compliance in the procurement itself, but makes sure the right project team is assembled to deliver the absolute best possible value for public sector investments.”
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