PLANS are underway to expand University Hospitals Dorset’s endoscopy services at Poole Hospital with the creation of a new, state-of-the-art centre.

Constructed using the latest modular technology, the unit will be located in place of the existing Parkview House site, featuring six procedure rooms.

There is the potential for future expansion as a training centre, with a training room and seminar room already incorporated into the ground floor plans.

University Hospitals Dorset (UHD) said the unit marks a ‘significant milestone’ in Poole Hospital’s development as a major planned care hospital for the region.

Dr. Suranga Dharmasiri, UHD consultant gastroenterologist and the Dorset Integrated Care System (ICS) lead for endoscopy, shared his enthusiasm for the project.

He said: "As we enter the construction phase, we’re excited to see our vision come to life.

“The new centre will enable us to treat more patients, reduce waiting times, enhance patient experiences, and train the next generation of endoscopy professionals in Dorset."

The £21 million development is a cornerstone of Dorset ICS’s long-term vision for the Community Diagnostic Centres programme, following a 'hub and spoke' model to improve elective diagnostics.

The facility has been designed by P+HS Architects in collaboration with Premier Modular and will significantly reduce on-site disruption once construction begins.

UHD said that with the use of off-site modular construction methods, hospital operations will be 'minimally affected during the build'.

Premier Modular and P+HS Architects are key partners in this project, which is tailored to the unique character of Poole Hospital’s site.

The design is said to 'carefully balance therapeutic and practical needs, incorporating efficient clinical patient flows within a welcoming, human-scaled environment'.

A comprehensive public consultation process, including input from local residents and special interest groups, helped shape the building’s layout and design.

UHD said the result is a 'calming, nature-connected space that offers patients and staff framed views of the surrounding landscape, promoting a sense of wellbeing'.

Demolition of Parkview House is scheduled to begin in November, with the project expected to be completed by Autumn 2025.