Holder Mathias Architects was commissioned by Haven Health Properties Limited to evolve a concept for the development of primary care resource centres. Connah’s Quay is one of a series currently being designed and built as part of a development programme throughout Wales.
The Connah’s Quay Health Centre, built by Allenbuild, houses three established GP practices in the town, who have relocated to the new facility, and also replaces the existing NHS clinic. As part of the scheme, new council offices and a pharmacy have also opened in a building adjacent to the centre.
Some of the key principles that formed the basis of the initiated design concept are: Appropriate response to site context; creation of ‘world class’ facility in a ‘landmark’ building; integration of users and sectors with shared spaces to evolve a building ‘community’; passive environmental principles to be employed wherever possible; securing a National Health Services (NHS) Environmental Assessment Tool (N.E.A.T.) excellent rating; and overcome confidentiality issues between clinical spaces, along with maintaining a comfortable environment.
The new Connah’s Quay Health Centre spanning 3,700 square feet is designed to provide bigger premises for each of the three surgeries that are relocating. This encompasses additional consulting and treatment rooms to allow services to be expanded, as well as modern facilities such as improved IT and communication systems, new furniture and an onsite café for patients and visitors. The three surgeries will also have their own dedicated areas within the building.
Project leader for Holder Mathias, Emma Jackson, stated that the facility is designed to bring all primary care needs under one roof. The designs also had to respond to a complex site that took into account the integration of many different users and sectors.
