With planning underway for a new intensive care unit (ICU) at Kingston Hospital, engagement events have been announced today for April and May to encourage feedback from residents and patients.

Kingston Hospital has received agreement in principle to build a new facility on site, as it hopes to develop its current nationally recognised intensive unit, including 'improving the quality of the environment for patients, their families and staff working in the unit, as well as increasing the number of ICU beds'.

Official plans have revealed the new building will be located in the centre of Kingston Hospital and will include four levels incorporating the intensive care unit, as well as car parking on the ground floor and additional space that can be adapted for future use. 

Kingston Hospital said: "The development is aligned with our long-term estates plan and clinical priorities for Kingston Hospital, as well as broader South West London strategies. Subject to the approval of a business case by NHSE, a 16-month construction programme is expected to begin on site in early 2024.

"We are currently working on plans with our construction partner, Mace Willmott Dixon, and would like to involve staff, patients and their families, and local people in our planning, to ensure we get it right."

The first online engagement event will take place on Thursday 20 April from 6pm - 7pm, providing residents and patients with the opportunity to hear about planning, view initial designs for the new building and hear from hospital staff and designers about benefits of the project. Those interested are able to sign up to the meeting here.

Two face-to-face consultations will follow on Thursday 25 May in Kingston Hospital's Education Centre at 12pm and 6.30pm.

For those wishing to attend either of the May consultation events, they are asked to email [email protected]