Springfield Medical Centre, Arbroath
This new purpose-built facility houses:
- two GP Practices
- a Drug Counselling Service Team
- a Community Dentistry Unit
- a Dental Training Facility
Our Clients’ Needs
Dr Sutherland said “we wanted a modern building with architectural merit”, but the number one priority was more space. “We were very cramped in our old space and limited from a clinical point of view.” The lack of natural light was also identified as creating a depressing working environment.
MCS’s Approach
To deliver a new building of the size required, we had to be creative in identifying a suitable site close to the town centre. Our ability to take on the development of a difficult brownfield site has been crucial to the success of this project. The site was formerly occupied by the town’s old gas works and was heavily contaminated. A major environmental clean up programme had to take place before construction work could begin. Although initially our modern design was resisted by the Planners, it was strongly supported by the Fine Arts Commission and on completion received an award in the Angus Design Awards Scheme.
Our Solution
Purpose-built, Springfield Medical Centre now has facilities that meet modern requirements which have been embraced by patients, staff and the local community:
The new 2,500 m² two-storey building is designed around a central, double height, glazed ‘street’, incorporating circular roof lights which create a perception of openness and a sense of space. Other benefits include:
- Increased space has improved working conditions for the practice nurses in particular.
- Easily accessible and close to several bus routes.
- The modern design enhances the civic landscape and was recognised by the Angus Design Awards Scheme.
“We were very cramped in our old space and limited from a clinical point of view. Our new building has solved all these problems; we can now provide a wide range of services in a spacious and modern setting to the enormous benefit of our patients.”
Dr. Sutherland,
Springfield Medical Centre,
Arbroath
Health Outcomes
Transforming the clinical and working environment for practitioners, patients and staff has been fundamental in achieving health improvements and reducing inequalities. In addition the treatment rooms have been built to the latest standards of primary health care, in terms of patient dignity and confidentiality. The building’s large corridors enable easy patient flow.
“The project has helped NHS Tayside achieve our vision to shift the balance of care in a planned manner from secondary acute services to primary care…”
NHS Tayside Health Board