The challenge
The growing population of Cambridgeshire, particularly the new residential community in Eddington poses pressure on healthcare services to keep up.
Existing General Practice surgeries, Huntingdon Surgery and Newham Walk Surgery are struggling to cater to their expanding patient base at their current sites, creating a need for the new ‘Eddington Healthcare Centre’ which will host both GP practices and give them an opportunity to expand.
The Solution
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough ICB commissioned us to manage the project from start to finish. This included engaging with relevant stakeholders and developing a design brief.
Phase 1 – Stakeholder engagement
- Identifying stakeholders – We identified key stakeholders early in the project, this included: GPs from both surgeries, other service providers and the University of Cambridge.
- Collaborative workshops – We organised a series of workshops to understand the specific needs of each practice. These workshops included discussions about anticipated population growth and the impact on healthcare services in the area. As well as exploring design feasibility of the existing space.
- Regular communication – We held regular meetings to keep stakeholders informed and ensure their feedback was incorporated into the design brief.
Phase 2 – Design brief development
- Needs assessment – To understand the needs of the new healthcare centre, we analysed current patient demographics and projected growth. We also reviewed the existing services and worked closely with stakeholders to identify gaps in service provision and consider potential new services.
- Space planning – Based on identified needs of the stakeholders, we developed a schedule of accommodation in line with health building notes (HBN) guidelines. This included allocation of space for clinical rooms, treatment areas and administrative office spaces. As well as planning for future expansion as the Eddington community population continues to grow.
- Stakeholder review – We continued collaborating with stakeholders to collate, share and incorporate feedback into the final document so it meets the needs of all parties involved.
The impact
Our efforts in this project will support the current population of patients in the area c.3000, with a potential to help up to 10,800 patients.
Holistic and patient centred
Our collaborative approach of involving GPs, community members, and other stakeholders helped design an all-rounded healthcare centre addressing both current and future healthcare needs.
New improved healthcare services
The new healthcare centre will bring a range of new, improved services closer to home for patients. And provide a new and modern facility for staff.
It’ll include GP and mental health services. As well as create a new space for the local community to create support networks.
Flexible and futureproof
The health centre is designed with flexibility for future expansion in mind. Ensuring that the healthcare centre can adapt to the changing needs of the Eddington community.
