HEALTHCARE ESTATES
Playing its part in the ‘design call to arms’
As the healthcare construction sector comes together for its premier annual conference, it does so against some of the most challenging conditions the NHS has ever faced. So says architectural practice, Gilling Dod, which adds: “Forced to look at generating significant savings, and with a lack of capital, while simultaneously meeting ever-increasing demand and complex health needs, healthcare providers, designers, and constructors, are
responding with ever-more innovative and forward-thinking design solutions. “As a long-established design champion in
healthcare, Gilling Dod is playing its part in this design ‘call to arms’ – by helping facilitate new ways of working and patient- focused service change across the entire NHS estate. Whether in the form of Integrated Front door and innovative ED schemes such as at Great Western Hospitals NHSFT, and Swindon and Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHSFT, new mental health Crisis, and Urgent Treatment centres – as at Midlands Partnership NHS FT and CWP NHSFT, or ground-breaking new health based Digital Research, and innovation centres in Liverpool, the face of NHS services is changing, and so are our designs. Couple this with the need to meet the Government’s Net Zero targets, and MMC commitment, and it is indeed a challenging time, but also one of opportunity and innovation.” The photo shows the Swindon Integrated Front Door.
‘Most advanced macerator system yet’
Haigh describes itself as ‘a trusted partner to the NHS for 60 years, delivering reliable, low-maintenance solutions for human waste disposal in healthcare environments’. The company said: “With a focus on infection prevention, sustainability, and practical engineering, our systems are built to meet the real-world needs of both clinical and Estates teams.” It continued: “The Panaway DS is our most advanced macerator system yet, engineered to simplify maintenance, reduce clinical disruption, and maximise sluice room reliability. “At its core is the innovative Docking Station and baseplate system (pictured), a game- changing feature
that allows Panaway DS units to be quickly swapped out without tools, plumbing intervention, or Estates call-outs. This means faster turnaround during maintenance or fault events, and far less operational downtime. Key features include:
n No-tool swap-out: Estates teams can replace units ‘in minutes, not hours’.
n Compact and efficient: designed for space-limited sluice rooms, with low energy and water usage. n Supports infection control: maintains all the clinical and hygiene advantages of disposable pulp.
n Minimises disruption: keeps rooms operational during servicing, without compromising on
compliance or cleanliness. Empowering healthcare estates to achieve Net Zero
At Healthcare Estates 2025, Centrica Business Solutions will – as it puts it – ‘showcase how healthcare providers can take control of their energy future – reducing costs, improving resilience, and deliver on Net Zero commitments’. The company said: “From hospitals to community care facilities, our solutions are designed to meet the unique challenges of healthcare estates, where energy security and operational efficiency are critical. We will demonstrate how on-site generation – including Combined Heat and Power (CHP), solar PV, and heat pumps – can cut
134 Health Estate Journal September 2025
emissions and energy bills, while enhancing resilience against grid volatility. Our experts will also highlight how battery storage, microgrids, and smart energy management
systems, can integrate seamlessly into existing infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted power for critical services. With our end-to-end approach – from advisory and design through to installation, operation, and financing, we enable NHS Trusts and private healthcare providers to decarbonise without disrupting patient care. “Visit our stand to explore real-world case studies, discuss funding options, and discover practical steps to accelerate your estate’s journey to Net Zero. Together, we can create a healthier, more sustainable, future for patients, staff, and communities.”
Safety, functionality and dignity in design
For almost 20 years, manufacturer Polar NE has designed and manufactured specialist windows and doors that have made mental health facilities safer – and the lives of service users better. It says that as ‘an industry-leader, Polar
NE’s products are both safe and innovative’. While NHS Trusts are core clients, the company also provides bespoke solutions to prisons, schools and the private sector. Managing Director James Hill said: “At
Polar, we believe in more than products – we believe in purpose. “Every window we create is designed with the user in mind, balancing safety, functionality and dignity. “That’s why NHS Trusts and private
providers alike trust us to deliver security without compromise.” The company says that ‘unique features,
like removable mesh panels for easy ventilation and maintenance, reflect Polar NE’s unwavering commitment to practical solutions shaped by real user needs’. “Our mission is clear: Improve lives by design,” James added. “We work hand- in-hand with clients to do that, crafting bespoke solutions which support recovery and wellbeing. Mental health environments demand more and that’s what we deliver – every time. We’re proud to shape spaces where users enjoy safety, control and that priceless sense of freedom.”
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