Energy-saving steps aim to cut emissions by 80 per cent

A major project to decarbonise North Tyneside General Hospital is well under way, with the aim of reducing its emissions by 80 per cent in the years to come. The ‘up-to-£22 m scheme,’ which will see the hospital’s steam system replaced, and a raft of other energy-saving improvements, is all part of what Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust dubs ‘a commitment to taking concrete, meaningful action’ to reduce its environmental impact. HEJ editor, Jonathan Baillie, talked to Project director at Northumbria Healthcare Facilities Management, Owen Cusack, and his colleague, Energy and Sustainability officer, Michael Blades. 

Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust provides health and care services to over 500,000 people living in Northumberland and North Tyneside. It delivers healthcare from sites including the 265-bedded North Tyneside General Hospital in North Shields, the 375-bedded Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care Hospital in Cramlington, the 254-bedded Wansbeck General Hospital, and Hexham General Hospital, plus community hospitals in Alnwick, Berwick, Blyth, and Rothbury, an outpatient and diagnostic centre in Morpeth, an elderly care unit, and an integrated health and social care facility. 

One of two wholly-owned subsidiaries that enables it to offer expertise outside the main organisation is Northumbria Healthcare Facilities Management. It provides specialist project management services for capital developments, estates maintenance, and a full range of facilities services.