We are proud to have recently completed the refurbishment and extension of the Chemotherapy Unit at Dorset County Hospital (DCH), a project focused on improving the experience for patients undergoing vital treatment.

The project involved the internal remodelling and expansion of the existing ward to create additional treatment spaces, a more modern and comfortable environment, and access to a calming courtyard area for patients, visitors, and staff. This courtyard, a standout feature of the project, now provides a peaceful space away from the clinical setting, offering patients a chance to pause and reflect during what can be a particularly difficult time.

Working within a live hospital environment always presents unique challenges, but our team was fully committed to delivering the project safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to the day-to-day operations of the hospital. Every element of the project was carefully planned to protect patients, staff, and visitors while maintaining the essential hospital services running alongside our works.

Paul Harrison, one of our Site Managers at LST Projects , reflected on the complexity of delivering the scheme in such a sensitive environment: "The Chemo Unit project at DCH was particularly challenging due to the tight timeframes, complex logistics, and working alongside live ward areas close to hospital staff and patients. We encountered some unforeseen issues that usually come with refurbishment projects, but thanks to a great working relationship with the client, designers and our subcontractors, we overcame them together. One of the biggest challenges was managing entry to the site through a single shared access point, while maintaining safety and minimising disruption. It was a real team effort, and I’m proud of how successfully it was delivered despite the pressures."

Throughout the project, we worked closely with Rhiannon Swatton, Senior Capital Project Manager at DCH, who shared her thoughts on the outcome: "Overall, the project has gone really well. Some challenges in the early stages of the project, but the design team, along with LST, have worked really well to overcome those, and I think the outcome speaks for itself. It is a beautiful space that will make a huge difference to our patients. This project was all about patient experience, and I think it’s more than delivered."

A project like this relies on close partnerships, and we were fortunate to work again with D&B Mechanical, who provided their expertise on the mechanical aspects of the project. Shaun Dunford from D&B Mechanical commented: "We’ve worked with LST Projects before on the Ridgeway Ward at DCH, and it’s always been a positive experience. This project has been well managed, straightforward, and easy to communicate throughout. Underfloor heating was a bit unusual for a hospital, but everything went smoothly. LST are easy to deal with and always on hand to help – we’ve built a really good working relationship."

As the main contractor for this project, we are very proud of the outcome of this ward and the significant impact it will have on those who need to use the space, along with the sense of calm we hope it will provide to patients, families, and staff. The refurbished Chemotherapy Unit at DCH now offers a brighter, more welcoming space that places the patient experience at its heart.

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