From design to delivery

In November 2022 the NHS and government gave us the green light to proceed with building a world-class centre for eye care, research and education. In February 2023 we appointed Bouygues UK (BYUK) to build the new centre. Demolition of existing buildings on the site has finished and in July 2023 we broke ground. This officially marked the start of construction. We plan to open the new centre in 2027.

View BYUK’s latest construction community newsletter – April 2024

Our construction timeline

→ Phase 1 · Site preparation & enabling work · November 2022 to January 2023 

» Installation of environmental monitoring systems (noise, dust and vibration)
» Installation of Heras fencing enabling works prior to demolition of buildings
» Redirection of pedestrian and vehicular traffic within the site
» Initial site Installation including site access and welfare
» Create new access for the Mary Rankin (North Wing) dialysis unit
» Utilities and services diversion works

Phase 2 · Demolition · February to July 2023 

» Permanent hoardings erected (internal and external to site) and replacement of some Heras fencing
» Scaffolding and screens for demolition works
» Utilities and services diversion works
» Demolition works
» Redirected traffic along Granary Street

Phase 3 · Construction of basement · Q2 2023 to Q1 2024 

» Piling works including boreholes for Ground Source Heat Pump
» Excavation works
» Installation of tower cranes
» Main site office installation 

Phase 4 · Main building frame construction · Q1 to Q4 2024

» Construction of infra and superstructure: concrete works
» Utilities works to the perimeter of the site 

Phase 5 · Façade installation and roof works · Q3 2024 to Q3 2025

» Installation of external façades, atrium roof and steel frames
» Delivery of large plant and equipment to the site

Phase 6 · Fit out & commissioning · Q3 2024 to project completion

» Internal fit out works
» Tower cranes dismantling
» Commissioning works

Phase 7 · External works · Q4 2025 to project completion

» External hard and soft landscaping
» Removal of welfare and site offices