Calderdale Council has approved detailed plans for a new 25,093-square-meter clinical building at Calderdale Royal Hospital in Halifax, marking a significant milestone for the major healthcare infrastructure project. The development will deliver 10 inpatient wards and a new accident and emergency department as part of a broader GBP 196.5 million investment program.

The approval was secured at a planning committee meeting on 21 October 2025, confirming reserved matters approval that covers the building's appearance, layout, scale, and landscaping. This follows the initial outline consent granted in April 2022.

Project Design and Structure

The new clinical building will span three to four storeys, with distinct functional areas designed for optimal patient care. The western element will house the accident and emergency department, including specialized resuscitation bays and assessment rooms. The eastern section will contain the ward block with the 10 inpatient wards. Construction materials have been carefully selected to complement the surrounding area, featuring precast concrete panels with textured finishes and stone facing at ground level.

The materials and colour choices were specifically designed to harmonize with the neighboring conservation area and nearby non-designated heritage assets.

Construction Timeline and Contractor Role

Laing O'Rourke was named as the preferred partner for the design stage of the building in March 2024 and is currently involved at the pre-construction services agreement stage. The company is scheduled to begin construction in summer 2026, subject to final sign-off of the full business case by the Department of Health and Social Care. The building is expected to reach completion in 2029. Enabling works are anticipated to commence in the coming months, including the installation of utilities infrastructure.

Environmental and Sustainability Features

The project is targeting BREEAM Excellent certification and incorporates modern methods of construction aligned with the NHS Net Zero Standard. A revised biodiversity baseline has confirmed the scheme will achieve a 10 percent net gain, subject to further condition approvals. Christopher Northwood, Laing O'Rourke's project leader, stated the firm would “create an environmentally responsible site” through the use of off-site manufacturing and by reducing emissions, pollution, and waste.

The sustainability measures represent a comprehensive approach to environmental responsibility in healthcare construction.

Site Development and Infrastructure

The new clinical building will replace a two-storey former learning center and surface car park, representing a significant upgrade to the hospital's facilities. The development includes comprehensive upgrades to site access, servicing infrastructure, and landscaping to support the expanded healthcare operations. The building is designed to link directly to the existing main hospital while remaining within the scale of current development on the site.

This integration approach ensures seamless patient flow and operational efficiency between new and existing facilities. Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust procured the project as part of their “Foundations for our Future” investment program, which represents a GBP 196.5 million commitment across the trust's hospital estate. This broader investment program demonstrates the trust's comprehensive approach to modernizing healthcare infrastructure in the region.

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