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Construction partners Kier handed over the keys to the NHS, meaning it’s full steam ahead to furnish and equip the facility, ahead of it opening to patients later this summer.
And here’s more of a look inside as the handover is completed.
To read about what it means for patients and the city, see here https://www.sunderlandecho.com/news/people/inside-sunderlands-game-changing-eye-hospital-as-building-work-is-completed-8648365
5. Designed with patients in mind
The building is more fit for purpose than the ageing Eye Infirmary and is more accessible. Features include Braille signage, colour coded floors and more. | Sunderland Echo
6. A future ready facility
Dan Doherty, regional director for Kier Construction North & Scotland, said: “We are proud to have delivered Sunderland Specialist Eye Hospital in partnership with Sunderland City Council and South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust - creating a facility that will play a vital role in supporting high-quality eye care across the region. This project is a testament to the strength of collaboration between all partners involved, from clinical teams and stakeholders through to our supply chain, each helping to shape a hospital that reflects the needs of its users. We are incredibly proud of our project team and everyone who has contributed to bringing this scheme to life. By combining that collaborative approach with sustainable infrastructure, we have created a future-ready facility designed to perform for the long-term health of the community.” | Sunderland Echo
7. New name
Earlier this year, NHS leaders confirmed the new name as ‘Sunderland Specialist Eye Hospital’, reflecting the proud history of eye care in Sunderland and the city’s reputation as a leading specialist eye centre. | Sunderland Echo
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8. A new era for specialist eyecare
NHS staff, patients and partners from the voluntary sector including the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), have also been heavily involved in helping design the new facility working closely with construction partner Kier. | Sunderland Echo