Step Exhibitions
Stonebow Unit – Galliford Try
Nominee Information
The refurbishment of the Hereford Stonebow Unit has transformed a facility which was no longer fit for purpose into a modern, therapeutic space. Maintaining full operational capacity over 3 years, we replaced dormitory-style accommodation with 100% ensuite rooms and improved therapeutic space. Through detailed planning and collaboration with clinical and estates teams, disruption was minimised while creating a patient-centred environment that promotes dignity and supports recovery.
Built in 1989, the facility had seen little change in line with service user need, with many admitted much more unwell and staying longer. Acknowledging the need for a more suitable environment for recovery, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust appointed Galliford Try to modernise the live unit.
Before refurbishment, shared dormitory-style accommodation caused distress, particularly for dementia patients, narrow corridors hindered escorted movement and observation. Shared bathrooms posed safety concerns, and wards split over two floors impacted staff responsiveness and patient access to gardens, contributing to an institutional environment.
Aligned with the Modernising Mental Health Act 2018, the modernisation required demolition, refurbishment of three existing wards, and a new extension, all while maintaining full bed occupancy. The construction was phased to ensure live hospital services could continue throughout. Upon appointment, we assessed the Trusts phasing plan, developing a programme which minimised patient movement for all wards, removing the need for any decant and ensuring all patients moved only once, into their final location, minimising stress which hinders recovery, reducing the programme and removing abortive decant costs. Construction schedules were adjusted to limit noise, with close monitoring and collaboration with ward matrons to shape strategies around environmental controls.
Having completed all 3 phases, the facility now offers 39 single ensuite bedrooms all on ground floor with access to gardens. Corridors and ward layouts have been reconfigured to improve movement and observation. Expanded therapeutic space, along with office accommodation and communal areas, fosters a more recovery-focused environment while reducing the institutional feel. Both recovery and functionality is aided by;
- Innovative design for flexibility: new build extension provides a flexible connection between 2 wards allowing for bedrooms to flex depending on changing clinical and capacity needs.
- Visually Interesting: Creative dementia friendly design utilises large scale images of the local area and traditional ‘front door’ artwork to each bedroom aids memory and provides a sense of ‘home’.
Recognising the role of outdoor space in recovery, the design incorporates safe, accessible, gardens, allowing service user access while being designed for flexible use between wards. Biodiversity enhancements, including insect hotels, bat boxes, bird feeders, and sensory planting, promote wellbeing while embedding the facility into its natural surroundings.
Aligned with NHS Net Zero ambitions, photovoltaic panels provide renewable energy, ensuring long-term sustainability. Energy efficiency measures include upgraded insulation, windows, and LED lighting. Electric plant and machinery reduced emissions and noise and a roof retrofit, incorporated high performance insulation and modern fire-resistant membranes for compliant protection and energy efficiency.
Delivered on time and budget with client gainshare, the Trust awarded the project a 10/10 client satisfaction score.
