Work is set to begin on a major transformation of the main entrance at Royal Bolton Hospital, creating a modern, welcoming and accessible entrance point for patients, visitors and staff.
The redevelopment is expected to be completed and open to visitors in autumn 2027 and will deliver a significantly improved arrival experience, with brighter, more accessible spaces, improved amenities and a wider range of food and drink options.
Designed to better meet the needs of patients, visitors and staff, the new entrance will be easier to navigate and provide a more comfortable environment for people attending appointments, visiting loved ones or spending time at the hospital.
The redevelopment will include new drop-off facilities, improved public toilets, a new home for the existing Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service, enhanced seating and waiting areas, and a range of new retail and refreshment outlets.
New retailers confirmed as part of the development include Costa Coffee, M&S Food, WHSmith, Greggs and StockShop, offering greater choice and convenience for everyone using the hospital.
The scheme is being delivered by Bolton NHS Foundation Trust in partnership with WHSmith and Noviniti, the property development and investment company. The development is being funded by the partners and will not impact the Trust’s budget or financial position.
Access to the hospital will be maintained throughout the construction period via Trust Headquarters, located a short distance further along the road. The Trust will work closely with partners to minimise disruption, ensure any changes are clearly signposted and easy to navigate, and make sure patients and visitors can continue to access services safely and conveniently. The pharmacy will still be open and accessible from the main corridor of the hospital.
The current coffee shop, Fontanella, will remain open during the works, helping to ensure staff, patients and visitors continue to have access to on-site refreshments while the new development progresses.
Fiona Noden, Chief Executive at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“The start of this project marks an exciting milestone for Royal Bolton Hospital.
“Our main entrance is the front door to many of our services, welcoming thousands of patients, visitors and staff every week, and these improvements will transform the experience for everyone who uses it.
“By creating a more modern, accessible and welcoming environment, we can help make what is often an anxious time a little easier, while ensuring our facilities meet the needs of the communities we serve now and in the future.”
Jonathan Houlston, CEO of Noviniti said:
“We are delighted to be working with Bolton NHS Foundation Trust to support the delivery of exceptional care through the creation of a new main entrance at the front of Royal Bolton Hospital.
“Working alongside WHSmith, this new development will greatly enhance the experience for staff, patients and visitors by providing improved retail facilities and a more welcoming, accessible route into the hospital.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone through the new doors when the development opens in autumn 2027.”
Justyn Ashford, Director of Franchise at WHSmith, said:
“We’re proud to be partnering with Bolton NHS Foundation Trust and Noviniti on this important project. Our experience of operating in complex, high-footfall locations means we understand how to create and run retail propositions that work for our partners and the communities they serve.
Bringing together Costa Coffee, M&S Food, WHSmith, Greggs and StockShop will give staff, patients and visitors a broad choice of food, drink and everyday essentials, with more choice and convenience throughout the day.”
