Work starts on £2m chemo unit revamp

An artist’s impression of the new and improved chemotherapy unit

Work to give the chemotherapy unit at Dorset County Hospital a £2m upgrade is under way.

The hospital is overhauling its Fortuneswell Unit, which opened 30 years ago, to improve the layout and add an outdoor courtyard.

While the work is being carried out, chemotherapy outpatients are receiving their treatment temporarily on Fortuneswell Ward.

Work is due to be completed in spring 2025.

Nick Johnson, deputy chief executive officer at Dorset County Hospital, said: "So many people will be affected by cancer in their lifetime and we want to support patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment by providing them with the best possible environment.

"Once it's complete, we hope that the new and improved unit will complement the fantastic care already given by our staff."

The work is being paid for by the hospital's trust and money raised from the Dorset County Hospital Charity's chemotherapy appeal.