Cardio Theatre Refurbishment – Wythenshawe Hospital

Novus was appointed by Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust to refurbish two cardio theatres and ancillary areas within the Cardio Thoracic Department at Wythenshawe Hospital. The project took place in a highly sensitive live environment, adjacent to the hospital mortuary and children’s ward, requiring exceptional care in planning and delivery. The works aimed to bring the facilities in line with current NHS guidelines, improve compliance, and extend the operational lifespan of the theatres.

Scope:
• Structural and enabling works: Full strip-out to shell form followed by structural alterations.
• MEP and ventilation: Installation of a new AHU, new MEP services, and compliant electrical/storage systems.
• Facilities and finishes: New ceilings, flooring, HTM-compliant finishes, theatre equipment, doors/door sets with access control, and a new shower room.

Successes:
• Delivered state-of-the-art, HTM-compliant theatres aligned with current NHS standards.
• Maintained continuous hospital operations by implementing a clear Communication Strategy and weekly coordination meetings.
• Completed works with minimal disruption despite being surrounded by highly sensitive hospital departments.

Challenges:
• Operating within a live hospital environment adjacent to critical areas such as intensive care, transplant units, and a children’s ward.
• Managing restricted access via shared corridors, requiring careful scheduling and logistics.
• Coordinating complex MEP and specialist theatre installations in confined, high-
sensitivity spaces.