Lister Hospital’s new main entrance has officially opened, creating a modern, welcoming and accessible entrance for patients, visitors and staff.
As part of wider improvements to the front of the hospital, the new entrance includes a Costa Coffee store and Co-op, as well as additional office space for staff.
Local MP Kevin Bonavia officially opened the entrance on Wednesday 21 October, cutting the ribbon to the new space alongside representatives from the trust, and construction partners Noviniti, Goldbeck and retail partner, One Retail.
Martin Armstrong, Chief Executive at East and North Hertfordshire Teaching NHS Trust said: “The main entrance is the front door to our hospital, so creating a modern and welcoming space is really important.
“This commercially-funded project represents a significant improvement to the Lister site and provides a better environment for the people who use and work at our hospital every day.”
The opening also marks the completion of improvements to the surrounding green space, creating a more attractive and accessible area for people to enjoy. This includes a new drop-off area, new seating, picnic-style lawn areas and biodiverse planting, alongside a new zone for local market traders, seasonal health promotions, and stalls.
Kevin Howell, Director of Estates and Facilities at East and North Hertfordshire Teaching NHS Trust said: “We are delighted to finally open the doors to our new main entrance. The new entrance will provide a much better experience for our patients, visitors and staff from the moment they arrive at Lister.”
Andrew Jones, Managing Director at One Retail said: “This sees the completion of a significant project that will enhance services and facilities at the hospital. The retail offers strike the balance between quality, high street favourites and availability.”
The new area introduces a range of retail offerings, including a Costa Coffee store, Co-op and Stock Shop.
Jonathan Houlston, CEO at Noviniti said: “It has been a great pleasure for Noviniti to work with East and North Hertfordshire Teaching NHS Trust, One Retail and Goldbeck to deliver the new main entrance at the Lister Hospital. This is a significant project for the Trust and will enhance the patient and visitor experience at the hospital with greatly improved facilities. We would like to thank everyone involved in the delivery of this exceptional project.”
Work will now begin on the refurbishment of the existing main corridor, with completion expected later this year.
