29 January 2021

Work is about to start on improving the road and roundabout layout as part of the new Heatherwood Hospital development in Ascot.

This will involve work to the main, large roundabout on the High Street by contracting firm, J McCann. The improvement will result in an increase from two to three lanes with dedicated filter lanes, which should assist in traffic flow and allow better access to the new hospital. There will also be improved street lighting, signage and pedestrian access, including upgraded pedestrian crossing areas.

The first phase of work starting on Monday (1 February) by J McCann will involve utilities upgrades and will result in the closure of one lane for about 30 metres running up to the roundabout on the High Street. This should keep traffic disruption to a minimum. The next phase, starting at the end of March will mean full lane closure until early August. We will provide more information about this as work progresses.

The works have been planned and phased to have the lowest impact on the travelling public, noise levels and the environment. Throughout the project it is intended to keep traffic flowing, have minimum lane closures and keep any diversions in place for the shortest time possible to safely conduct the works.

This brings us a step closer to completion of the new hospital which will specialise in planned, non-emergency operations such as orthopaedics, general surgery, urology, gynaecology and lithotripsy.

The new Heatherwood Hospital will provide us with a dedicated, state-of-the-art facility using the latest technology to deliver outstanding services. Due to its location in the heart of our community it will meet the needs of our NHS and private patients across Berkshire, Hampshire and Surrey.

We are due to open to patients in December 2021, replacing the current Heatherwood building which has stood in Ascot for a century. Our new hospital will have six operating theatres, 48 inpatient beds and 22 day-case cubicles and provide operations, diagnostics and outpatient care to both NHS and private patients.

What it means for you:

· Investment in your NHS to meet future increased demand

· Care and support in up-to-date theatres, wards and clinics

· Greater choice for NHS and private patients

· Increased access to diagnostic facilities

· Greater efficiency and value for money

Building work on the site is due to finish by the summer (2021) followed by work to furnish and “fit-out” the hospital so we are ready to welcome our first patients in the winter.