Plans are progressing to refurbish and expand the Emergency Department (ED) at Kingston Hospital, marking a significant step towards improving urgent and emergency care services for local communities.

NHS England has granted approval in principle for the project, which forms part of Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust’s wider commitment to enhancing patient care and improving the experience of urgent and emergency services, while also creating a better working environment for staff.

Graeme Wright, Chief Nurse at Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We continue to see significant pressure across our urgent and emergency care services, and making improvements in this area is one of our key priorities. We know from patient feedback that the current environment does not always provide the best possible experience, particularly during periods of high demand. 

“The proposed improvements will create a more spacious, flexible and supportive environment - one that is better equipped to meet the needs of our local population and support smoother patient flow.”

The Trust is now developing options and a full business case for the scheme and hopes to receive final approvals in due course.