Demolition of historic Christchurch hospital block begins

As part of the extensive multi-million pound project to transform the Fairmile site in Christchurch, demolition of H Block has started.

As well as the demolition of the former workhouse infirmary, there are also plans to include a GP surgery, pharmacy, assisted-living units, a care home and key worker housing.

The scheme caused controversy during the planning process last year, with local historians and conservation experts expressing concern about the loss of the historic workhouse infirmary.

Once H Block is down, work on the 80-bed nursing and 36 assisted living flats will begin next spring.

More than 97 per cent of the building materials from the demolition of H Block aim to be recycled including 10,000 slate tiles, brickwork and timber forming the roof structure.

Richard Renaut, chief operating officer, said: “Work really is picking up pace and as H block comes down, our patients, staff and the local community will see some very visible changes on site.

“We know Christchurch Hospital means a lot to local people and this redevelopment is all about securing services there and ensuring it remains at the heart of the community.

“We would like to thank the community and our staff for their support and their patience at this busy time.”

In a public update, the Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals Trust told patients that from next week the outpatients department at Christchurch will be based in the refurbished Forest Dene and the main entrance will move to the rear of the North entrance.

The Pharmacy will still be located in G Block at the back of the Courtyard Dining Room.

Phlebotomy is now temporarily based in the former Pulmonary Rehabilitation Gym and has a dedicated waiting area for patients.

Patients still need to get tickets from the Outpatients reception.

The Day Hospital remains where it is.

X-ray operates from a temporary facility near the Macmillan Unit and the Rheumatology Department is based in M Block.