Princess Alexandra Hospital celebrates grand opening of modern new entrance for all users

PATIENTS from across Essex and Hertfordshire can enjoy transformed access to services at Harlow’s Princess Alexandra Hospital after the hospital celebrated the official opening of its wonderful new entrance.

VIP guests, staff and friends were on hand at the grand launch ceremony which marked the completion of renovation work to create a modern, fully accessible lobby area, refurbished outpatients waiting space and retail facilities for patients and families at the Harlow hospital. The ribbon cutting was performed by Harlow MP Robert Halfon, with Harlow Council Chair, Cllr Sue Livings, and other guests in attendance.

The installation of a new door was essential to enhance patient experience on entering the building, to meet disability discrimination legislation and to improve the general environment of the 1960s built infirmary.

Addressing staff and guests, Mr Halfon said: “Over the last few weeks there has been a wealth of good news about this hospital and its achievement in improving its inspection rating.

This entrance is part of the renewal of The Princess Alexandra Hospital, so while we need a new hospital in the long term, we now have this wonderful
upgraded facility, fit for all users. Thank you to everyone involved in this regeneration which I commend to our community and thank you to every single member of staff for the great work you do.”

Chief Executive, Lance McCarthy, said: “We are enormously proud of our new facilities which have included the installation of a new front door. Our priority is the quality of care and safety of all of our patients and our staff. We are committed to providing the best possible facilities and environment for all of our users.”

Chair of Harlow Council said she recently had occasion to use the hospital while work was underway and had the greatest praise for the care she had received. She added: “When I walked in today I was absolutely astounded by the transformation. I applaud everyone who has been involved in this great achievement. It’s a superb facility for Harlow and our surrounding villages and areas.”