Breathing new life into one of the UK’s historic urban medical campuses

Central Manchester Hospitals and Research Centre

Manchester, England, is a city in transition. But as it changes, its industrial Victorian past remains woven into its modern urban tapestry. This evolution can be seen in Central Manchester Hospitals and Research Centre (CMHRC). Through bold and original design, the hospital campus honors the past, meets the needs of today’s patient, and is leading Manchester into the future.

CMHRC represents one of Stantec’s most challenging and rewarding healthcare projects. When the designers first visited the campus, they found a series of separate hospitals that had suffered from a century’s worth of piecemeal developments. A major factor in the success of this scheme was Stantec’s strong master plan, which has restored clarity to the site.

Others saw old buildings. We saw a city’s rich history and a chance to preserve the heritage that has shaped, and continues to shape, the community. In designing the new hospital campus plan, we turned many of the surrounding Victorian buildings into non-clinical support spaces. These modern spaces—including an education center, library, cafe, and staff housing—celebrate the past and help patients and visitors feel comfortable, uplifted, and inspired.

The ambitious scheme co-locates four new hospitals – adult, eye, women’s, and children’s—under a single unifying roof. Each hospital has its own entrance, sky lit reception, and outpatient facilities. Additionally, there are two mental health centres, eight ancillary buildings, and the retention of a historic Grade II listed Victorian frontage. The campus is organised by a central landscaped boulevard—one of the largest green spaces in Manchester.

Manchester continues its tradition of medical advancements with the inclusion of a state-of-the-art research centre. It is favourably located on the upper floors of the main hospital’s building to promote bench-to-bedside research.

Central Manchester Hospitals have always been a comforting beacon of care for those in need. Now, it's commitment can be seen and felt through a new layout that quite literally, puts community first. Shared diagnostic and research spaces support each hospital's patient spaces. Reception areas are light, airy and welcoming. Each entrance faces the main hospital "boulevard" and green space, creating a strong sense of community.