New Lingen Davies Centre ready for patients to arrive

Phase one of the ambitious project was finished back in April, when the new Chemotherapy Day Centre opened to general acclaim from patients and staff.

Since then, contractors have worked hard to complete the project on schedule, and the state-of-the-art facility will now be put to full use. The two-floor building includes a new reception area, an outpatient unit for haematology, head and neck, and oncology patients as well as the day unit for chemotherapy. Patients will start using the newly-completed areas from Monday.

“It’s been a long road to get to this point and a lot of hard work has been put in by a lot of people, but we are delighted with the finished building,” said Julia Clarke, lead Director for the Project

“The new building will provide a single integrated facility for outpatients, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, with over 40,000 patient visits every year. The new Centre has been designed to make the most of natural light and ventilation, green spaces and airy spacious rooms. The environment has been designed to provide a healing, calming environment and has involved patients, carers and staff throughout the process.

“The building has been completed on time and slightly under budget. I must also offer thanks to all our charity partners who have made this all possible. The project has cost more than £5 million and all of that has come from charitable donations.”

Lingen Davies took the lead with an appeal that raised almost £3.3 million. They also fronted a campaign to raise more than £350,000 for vital equipment for the new centre and to provide en-suite facilities for head and neck cancer patients in the new Unit at PRH..

A further crucial injection of cash came from the Shropshire Blood Trust Fund, which provided more than £1 million, while Head and Neck charities raised £250,000 and the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital’s League of Friends came up with £300,000.

Sarah Faulkner, the Oncology and Haematology Centre Manager, added: “Our patients will notice a marked difference in the environment where they will now be undergoing their treatment.

“For example, the treatment bays in the new Chemotherapy Day Centre have room for the patient and two or three family members to sit with them, if they wish, which can be a real comfort. The treatment bays have individually-controlled ventilation controls and power points so patients can bring in any electronic equipment they may wish to use.

“It really is a first class facility and we’re proud and delighted to have completed the work on time.”