Construction under way
Construction at Whipps Cross Hospital is at last under way.
Work has begun on building the first of two new multi-storey car parks, a project that must be completed before construction work on the new hospital itself can begin.
The car park is due to be completed in August 2025. When finished, it will replace the neighbouring temporary staff car park and small visitors’ car park, allowing that site to be cleared for the new hospital itself.
The construction works are being delivered by Integrated Health Projects (IHP) the joint venture between VINCI Building and Sir Robert McAlpine.
Marking the start of construction, Whipps Cross Redevelopment Director Alastair Finney said:
“This is a significant milestone for Whipps Cross. This first phase of construction is critical in paving the way for the new hospital itself. I’d like to thank colleagues for their considerable efforts into getting us to this position and acknowledge the work of our local authority and national colleagues too.
“Alongside delivering the new car park we are continuing to work with the national New Hospital Programme team to agree a timeline and funding allocation for the new hospital itself. We currently anticipate the second phase of construction getting under way in 2026, with the new hospital being completed in 2030.”
Paul Tumelty, Regional Director for VINCI Building said: “We are delighted to be partnering with the team at Whipps Cross to deliver the new multi-storey car park and play our part in realising Barts NHS Trust’s vision for the new hospital. We are thrilled to be able to contribute our skills and expertise in bringing this vital project to life and be given the opportunity to improve the service and experience for patients and local people; it’s great to get started!”
The design of the car park has been informed by local residents, will be secure and well lit, and is in line with ‘park mark’ - a status awarded following an assessment by the police.
The new car park will have 100 electric vehicle charging bays, parking for motorcycles, as well as accessible spaces.
When the car park opens in summer 2025, most spaces will be reserved for hospital staff. Existing visitor and patient car parks will remain in place until at least 2030.