Work underway to upgrade Royal Shrewsbury Hospital helipad

The upgrade will allow some of the newer larger air ambulances to land on the site if needed, while the lighting is also being improved.

While the work takes place, a temporary helipad will be used on a field at the end of Somerby Drive, near to the hospital. The temporary helipad will be used from today and is expected to be in place for around seven weeks, while the work on the existing helipad at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital takes place.

Arrangements will be put in place to ensure anyone using the field is given adequate notice and safeguards are in place while the helicopter lands.

Chris Needham, Director of Estates and Facilities at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust, said: “The refurbishment of the existing landing pad at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital will bring improvements. The upgrade will allow larger air ambulances to land and will also lead to improved lighting around the helipad, and follows a similar upgrade which has already taken place to the helipad at the Princess Royal Hospital in Telford.

“The work at Royal Shrewsbury Hospital has meant a temporary helipad is needed, as the hospital’s helipad needs to be enlarged as part of the upgrade.

“We appreciate the support of the local community for this life-saving service and apologise for any inconvenience the temporary helipad may bring.”