Two new-build healthcare facilities in King’s Lynn and Rackheath have been given the go ahead after the full business case for each development was approved by NHS England today (22 August).

The two new healthcare hubs form part of a £25.2m capital investment which the NHS in Norfolk and Waveney successfully bid for in 2019 to expand and improve health and care facilities in the local area.

Now that the business case for the King’s Lynn health hub has received final approval from NHS England, building works will commence this autumn. A decision on planning permission for the Rackheath health hub is anticipated in the coming weeks and, if approved, building works can also commence this autumn. Each building is planned to be ready in spring/summer 2024.

This timely investment will help to meet the growing demands for health and care services now, and safeguard provision for the future in the growing areas of King’s Lynn and Rackheath. 

The hubs will be modern, accessible, digitally enabled facilities where residents can access a range of health and care services. They will provide more joined-up services between primary, acute and community care, helping to improve patient experience and improve health outcomes for local residents.

Tracey Bleakley, Chief Executive of NHS Norfolk and Waveney said: “We are delighted to get the final go ahead to proceed with this much-needed investment into healthcare services in King’s Lynn and Rackheath.

“These facilities are a key part of the necessary infrastructure we need to deliver better and more sustainable health and social care within our communities. They will enable primary and community care services to be better integrated, and will improve access to care for people in these growing communities to help them lead healthier lives.”

The new buildings in Rackheath and King’s Lynn will be developed by NHS Property Services, who have provided construction management expertise on the development of these sites.

Health Minister Helen Whately said: “Alongside our plans to build 40 new hospitals by 2030 we are also upgrading over 70 hospitals across the country, and these new facilities in King’s Lynn and Rackheath will help meet demand in the region and serve thousands more patients. 

“Forming part of almost £26 million of government funding in Norfolk and Waveney healthcare facilities, these state of the art hubs will offer a range of healthcare services for patients – from physiotherapy to mental health support.

“This approach will cut waiting times in the region – one of our top five priorities – and offer patients the highest quality care when and where they need it.”