Milton Keynes University Hospital in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, is finishing work on two new operating theatres to help more people get their operations sooner. The project is designed to reduce long waiting lists for local residents who need planned procedures such as joint replacements and general surgery.
The Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust expects the new facilities to be ready for use by late spring 2026. The theatres will handle a variety of elective operations and are part of a wider plan to modernise the hospital’s equipment and space.
To speed up the build, sections of the new building were manufactured off-site and moved to the hospital to be assembled. The modular approach is intended to reduce the delays and disruption often associated with traditional construction methods.
Ian Reckless, deputy chief executive and chief medical officer at MKUH, told BBC News: “Reducing waiting times is one of our top priorities. These new theatres will allow us to treat more patients, faster, and ensure that MKUH continues to provide excellent care to our community.” Joe Harrison, the trust’s chief executive, has also described the work as “a key strand of our future strategy” for the fast-growing city (as stated in MKUH communications and local reporting). Milton Keynes City Council has been involved in the planning processes for the trust’s wider New Hospital Programme, which includes additions to surgical capacity.
This work is happening alongside other improvements, including a new imaging centre for MRI and CT scans that is due for handover in March 2026. These updates are intended to help the hospital provide better care and increase appointment capacity as Milton Keynes continues to expand.
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