Royal Oldham Hospital’s major new extension welcomes patients

The hospital’s new £28 million facility is now open to patients needing emergency general and colorectal surgery care.

The new facility is a Greater Manchester hub site and will boost capacity in the region for those requiring this type of care. More than 4,000 patients will be treated there each year, helping to reduce waiting times. 

Joann Webb, assistant director of general and colorectal nursing, said: “We are excited about the opening of our new hub where we will be able to treat more people who require high-risk general and colorectal care. The facility's design was developed with input from patients, service users and colleagues, and as a result, we have introduced changes.  I am sure it will make a difference to the patient experience and help with a speedier recovery so they can leave the hospital as soon as possible.”  

The new hub has two new general surgery wards with a capacity of 24 beds each, including individual rooms for those patients who need that extra privacy. There are rehabilitation and therapy rooms spread over two floors and multiple bathrooms. Patient rooms have been designed with additional space and lots of light, creating an environment that will aid recovery.  

Alison Birkett, lead nurse general and colorectal surgery, said: “Patients and colleagues are delighted with our new building and are taking advantage of our new facilities and the latest innovations.  

“Our clinical teams have been working incredibly hard to make sure we are ready for our first arrivals.  We have spent the first few days transferring patients from existing wards to the new space, and we’ve had great feedback.”    

The new development is named the Hulton Building, a name chosen by colleagues in memory of former surgeon Mr Neil Hulton, who was an inspiration to many. 

Mr Hulton worked at The Royal Oldham Hospital for more than 25 years as a consultant general and vascular surgeon and was a pioneer of keyhole surgery at Oldham. He also held the position of medical director and trained future surgeons.   

The Hulton building facility has been delivered in partnership with Integrated Health Projects (IHP). It has brought benefits to the local community and residents that include the creation of jobs as well as learning and mentoring opportunities.  During construction, local apprentices were appointed, industrial placements were secured for students, and jobs for clinical colleagues and support staff were created. 

The Hulton building opened in February 2024, with an official celebration planned for later in the year.  

Also Read: Royal Oldham Hospital: Multi-million pound extension approved

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