Work is now underway on a major redevelopment of the main entrance at Royal Bolton Hospital, with plans to create a modern, accessible and more welcoming gateway for patients, visitors and staff.
The ambitious transformation project is scheduled for completion in autumn 2027 and aims to significantly enhance the arrival experience across the hospital campus. The redesigned entrance will feature brighter, more accessible public spaces, upgraded amenities and an expanded selection of food and retail outlets.
The redevelopment has been designed to improve navigation throughout the hospital, while creating a more comfortable and convenient environment for patients attending appointments, visitors seeing loved ones and staff working on site.
As part of the project, the hospital's main entrance area will be reconfigured to include:
- New patient and visitor drop-off facilities
- Improved public toilet facilities
- A new home for the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service
- Enhanced seating and waiting areas
- New retail and refreshment outlets
Several major brands have already been confirmed as part of the development, including Costa Coffee, M&S Food, WHSmith, Greggs and StockShop. The additions are expected to provide greater convenience and choice for staff, patients and visitors.
The scheme is being delivered by Bolton NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with WHSmith and property development and investment company Noviniti.
Importantly, the project is being funded by the commercial partners and will not affect the Trust's budget or financial position.
Hospital leaders have stressed that access to services will be maintained throughout the construction period. During the works, the main public entrance will temporarily move to Trust Headquarters, located a short distance further along the road.
The Trust has committed to working closely with partners to minimise disruption, provide clear wayfinding and ensure patients and visitors can continue to access services safely and conveniently.
The hospital pharmacy will remain fully operational and accessible via the main hospital corridor throughout the redevelopment. Meanwhile, the existing Fontanella coffee shop will continue trading during the construction period, ensuring refreshments remain available on site.
Fiona Noden, Chief Executive at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“The start of this project marks an exciting milestone for Royal Bolton Hospital.
“Our main entrance is the front door to many of our services, welcoming thousands of patients, visitors and staff every week, and these improvements will transform the experience for everyone who uses it.
“By creating a more modern, accessible and welcoming environment, we can help make what is often an anxious time a little easier, while ensuring our facilities meet the needs of the communities we serve now and in the future.”
The redevelopment forms part of the Trust's wider commitment to improving healthcare environments, enhancing patient experience and ensuring hospital facilities remain fit for the future.
Image credit: Bolton NHS Foundation Trust
