The RUH provides cancer services to over 500,000 people in the South West. The Trust is one of the largest cancer centres in the region, diagnosing over 3,000 patients per year. They provide inpatient, day care and outpatient services including radiotherapy, chemotherapy and supportive therapies such as counselling. Thanks to our work at the Dyson Cancer Centre, for the first time the majority of non-surgical cancer services are under one roof, which will provide an easier and more convenient experience for the people being cared for.
In 2012, Kier was appointed Principal Supply Chain Partner (PSCP) for the redevelopment of the Royal United Hospital Bath. The development programme has been carried out in multiple phases, allowing the Trust to maintain services to patients whilst the hospital site underwent substantial change.
The purpose built facility brings together many of the RUH’s cancer services under one roof, including oncology, chemotherapy and radiotherapy services, a 22-bed inpatient ward, a dedicated pharmacy, a space for research and nuclear medicine and physics teams.
The centre also features a Macmillan Wellbeing Hub - a non-clinical, calming space where patients, families and carers can receive practical and emotional support.
Shaped around a 'Land. Water. Sky' theme, the new centre has been carefully designed to provide a nurturing and therapeutic environment which supports high quality clinical care.
Sustainable design
The Dyson Cancer Centre achieved BREEAM Excellent standard for sustainability in design, construction and management.
The building fabric was tested throughout the construction process and meets high standards for thermal insulation, air tightness and high levels of efficiency for heating, cooling, powering and lighting. It includes 290 sqm of solar panels on the roof to generate electricity.
The building has been designed to make use of natural light and includes 100 artworks and art installations - many of which are influenced by the local environment. Connecting with nature can generate an increase in positive emotions and feelings of calmness and optimism, and can help lower anxiety.
Cara Charles-Barks, RUH Chief Executive said:
"This is a major milestone for our community – we know cancer affects many lives and this new centre will help transform the care we provide for the people we care for and their loved ones, as well as providing an exceptional working environment for our dedicated staff.
Together with patients, staff and those with an interest in cancer services we’ve looked at every aspect of the care we provide and the surroundings we provide it in. We’ve worked to create a place where excellent clinical care is matched by a healing environment.
Thoughtful interior design, the use of natural light and over 100 artworks and art installations - many of which are influenced by the local environment - create a soothing and welcoming space, to balance the high tech facilities housed in the new centre. We’re grateful to everyone who has helped us create this amazing building which will benefit so many."