Work starts on Harrogate District Hospital redevelopment
The project, which focuses on the entrance and secured planning approval in February 2026, gets underway this week, with completion scheduled for spring 2027.
The redevelopment is being delivered by Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with property development and investment company noviniti and One Retail, the retail division of Compass Group UK & Ireland.
The scheme will create a redesigned and fully accessible entrance, alongside new retail, refreshment and patient facilities.
Plans include a new Costa Coffee and M&S Food, as well as upgraded self-check-in and reception facilities, informal seating areas and increased toilet provision, including a changing places toilet.
The project will also improve accessibility and create a more open arrival space, with sustainability measures incorporated into the design to reduce the environmental impact of the development.
The works will be primarily commercially funded, with the Trust stating that no funding will be diverted from frontline care, patient services, or staff budgets.
The existing front entrance will remain operational throughout construction, with the Trust working with its project partners to maintain access to the hospital and minimise disruption during the works.
Once complete, the upgraded entrance will provide a more accessible and modern arrival point for patients, visitors and staff using the hospital.
Jonathan Houlston, chief executive of noviniti said: “Working alongside One Retail, this new development will significantly enhance the experience for staff, patients and visitors by providing improved retail facilities and a more welcoming, accessible route into the hospital.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone through the new doors when the development opens in Spring 2027.”
Andy Jones, managing director, One Retail, said: “This is a really exciting project that will deliver true change for those visiting the hospital. The new entrance will offer a range of high-quality food, drink and retail options that offer both convenience and high street familiarity.
“By bringing trusted high street brands such as Costa Coffee and M&S Food to the hospital, we will create greater choice and a welcoming environment that helps make time spent on site a little easier and more comfortable for everyone.”
Jonathan Coulter, chief executive at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Coming into a hospital as a patient, carer or visitor can be an anxious and emotional experience. We want everyone who walks through our doors to feel supported and reassured from the moment they arrive.
“This project has been designed to create a space that meets the needs of a modern healthcare setting while improving the experience for everyone who uses it.
“This redevelopment will help us create a more welcoming and comfortable environment, alongside providing high-quality retail facilities for patients, visitors and our dedicated staff.”
