Impression of interior and exterior of new look entrance at Harrogate District Hospital
Work is set to begin on a major redevelopment of the main entrance at Harrogate District Hospital, following approval from the Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust Board.
The ambitious project will create a modern, welcoming and fully accessible entrance, enhancing the experience and meeting the needs of the thousands of patients, visitors and staff who pass through the hospital each day.
The redesigned space will include new retail and refreshment facilities alongside an upgraded environment that better reflects the high-quality care delivered across the Trust.
Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust is delivering the project in partnership with noviniti, the property development and investment company, and One Retail, the retail division of Compass Group UK & Ireland.
Having already obtained planning approval for the project in February 2026, work on the redevelopment will begin in early September 2026, with completion expected in spring 2027.
Access to the hospital will be maintained throughout the build, with the current front entrance remaining in use. The Trust will work closely with partners to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum; any changes are well signposted and easy to navigate; and patients and visitors can continue to access services safely and easily.
The project is primarily commercially funded, and no funding will be taken away from frontline care, patient services or staff budgets.
The redesigned entrance will significantly enhance the front of the hospital, creating a more contemporary and user-friendly space that reflects the high standards of care delivered within the hospital.
Key features of the new design will include better accessibility for all users, and a more open and welcoming space on arrival.
As part of the transformation, a range of new retail and refreshment options will be introduced, including a new Costa Coffee store and an M&S Food, helping to create a more appealing environment for those spending time on site.
The newly designed entrance will also boast enhanced self-check and reception facilities, new informal seating areas, and increased toilet provision, including a changing places toilet.
The project will also place a strong emphasis on sustainability, with design elements aimed at reducing environmental impact and supporting the Trust’s long-term commitment to greener healthcare delivery.
The hospital’s Café Bistro which is located in the hospital entrance will close at the end of September, whilst WH Smiths closed in July as part of the preparations for the redevelopment. Food and drinks will be available from Herriots restaurant on the 1st floor of the hospital.
Jonathan Coulter, Chief Executive at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Coming into a hospital as a patient, carer or visitor can be an anxious and emotional experience. We want everyone who walks through our doors to feel supported and reassured from the moment they arrive.
“This project has been designed to create a space that meets the needs of a modern healthcare setting while improving the experience for everyone who uses it.
“This redevelopment will help us create a more welcoming and comfortable environment, alongside providing high-quality retail facilities for patients, visitors and our dedicated staff.
“We are committed to ensuring patients remain at the heart of everything we do, and providing long-term value for the Trust and its community.”
Jonathan Houlston, CEO of noviniti said: “We are delighted to be working with Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust to support its transformation strategy through the creation of a new main entrance at the front of Harrogate District Hospital.
“Working alongside One Retail, this new development will significantly enhance the experience for staff, patients and visitors by providing improved retail facilities and a more welcoming, accessible route into the hospital.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone through the new doors when the development opens in Spring 2027.”
Andy Jones, Managing Director, One Retail, said: “This is a really exciting project that will deliver true change for those visiting the hospital. The new entrance will offer a range of high-quality food, drink and retail options that offer both convenience and high street familiarity. By bringing trusted high street brands such as Costa Coffee and M&S Food to the hospital, we will create greater choice and a welcoming environment that helps make time spent on site a little easier and more comfortable for everyone.”