Plans in to extend Wythenshawe’s Nightingale Centre

Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust’s proposals would see the construction of a 4,300 sq ft National Breast Imaging Academy to expand the hospital’s existing services.

Designed by AFL Architects, the scheme would deliver a single-storey building attached to the side of Wythenshawe Hospital’s Nightingale Centre.

Proposals feature a patient waiting room, three additional consultation rooms, and two extra mammography and ultrasound rooms. All rooms would provide around 200 sq ft of space.

There would also be additional teaching spaces and staff offices provided within the existing building.

The need for the facility comes as it is reported that “breast imaging services are facing significant challenges in delivery and sustainability as a result of increasing demand for ever more complex breast imaging, together with severe and worsening shortages across a multidisciplinary workforce”, according to a design and access statement.

As the lead provider for breast services across Greater Manchester, the trust predicts some services will be relocated to the Nightingale Centre, which has experienced a 100% increase in referrals since opening in 2007.

Curtins is the engineering consultant for the project. Arbtech is the ecological consultant, while Sandy Brown Associates is advising on noise.

The project team is also working collaboratively with Public Health England, The Royal College of Radiologists, The Society of Radiographers, The Association of Breast Clinicians, and the British Society of Breast Radiologists on the proposals.

To learn more about the plans, search for application number 137892/FO/2023 on Manchester City Council’s planning portal.