Kettering General Hospital Seeks Approval for Multi-Storey Car Park as Redevelopment Nears

Kettering General Hospital (KGH) has submitted a planning application for the construction of a new multi-storey car park. This proposed seven-storey facility, designed to accommodate 662 vehicles, forms part of the hospital’s preparatory work for its upcoming redevelopment. KGH was previously allocated redevelopment funding as one of 25 hospitals participating in the New Hospital Programme in England, initiated under the Conservative government. However, the government announced in September that it would be reviewing this funding. Polly Grimmett, the strategy director for the University Hospitals of Northamptonshire Group, emphasized the “importance” of proceeding with preparatory work to ensure the hospital is “ready for the rebuild” pending the government’s final decision. The hospital has stated its intention to commence construction of the multi-storey car park in 2025, with an anticipated completion in 2026. This timeline is intended to facilitate preparations for the hospital’s broader redevelopment, which is slated for 2027. To prevent potential delays, the hospital indicated it is moving forward with crucial planning procedures while awaiting the results of the government’s review. This planned car park is designed to compensate for parking areas that were eliminated during an earlier reconstruction project at the site. It will incorporate accessibility enhancements, including internal lifts and a connecting bridge to the main hospital building, to improve disabled access. Furthermore, the facility will provide cycle storage, changing rooms, and charging stations for electric vehicles. A public drop-in information session regarding these plans is scheduled to be held at Newlands Shopping Centre on 28 November, from 13:30 to 17:30 GMT.