Plans to build a new hospital in Shrewsbury to improve care for communities have taken a major step forward.

The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH) has signed a design and build contract with Integrated Health Projects (IHP) for the construction of the facility at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital (RSH).

The joint venture between VINCI Building and Sir Robert McAlpine will see the modern building constructed as part of the county's largest investment in hospital services.

It is part of the Hospitals Transformation Programme (HTP), which will see the Princess Royal Hospital (PRH) site in Telford specialise in planned care and the RSH site specialise in emergency care.

Artist's impression of what the new hospital will look like (Image: The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust) The new four-storey building will be built near the former outpatients’ entrance, and will lead to the remodelling of the existing emergency department at RSH.

The building will provide new emergency care, women and children’s, and critical care facilities.

The trust’s clinically-led designs will include modern internal healthcare spaces, external balconies, an internal atrium, and single ensuite bedrooms.

Jo Williams, chief executive for SaTH, said: "We are delighted to be working with IHP, who bring a wealth of experience in leading large hospital construction programmes.

"The clinically-led HTP plans at RSH will address our most pressing clinical challenges and establish solid and sustainable foundations upon which to make further improvements across all our hospitals.

"I look forward to seeing this significant construction progress, as we continue to keep local communities and clinicians involved at every stage, to help build a positive experience for everyone."

The new clinical model will benefit patients by providing planned care services in PRH, leading to fewer cancellations and delays for operations.

Enhanced urgent care services will be available 24/7 on both hospital sites, and improved emergency care services will be delivered from a new, purpose-built emergency department at RSH.

Throughout the construction, existing services will be maintained and careful consideration and planning has been undertaken to reposition entrances and car parking.

The construction of the building is being carried out in phases to help minimise the impact to staff, patients, visitors, and local communities.

John Roberts, managing director for VINCI Building, said: "IHP are really looking forward to delivering this transformational scheme for The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust.

"We will create a lasting legacy for the area and wider communities.

"Our dedicated teams will also help support local spend and on-site, hands-on training opportunities in construction trades by opening a Community Skills Centre.

"This centre will enable local young people to have opportunities to pursue careers in construction."

It is expected that the new building will be completed and operational in 2028.