Extension approved for Middlesbrough's James Cook Hospital
Last updated 1st May 2025
Two building extensions and other works have been approved for James Cook University Hospital.
Middlesbrough Council planning officers have approved a two storey extension as well as a separate first floor extension. Window alterations and a replacement air handling unit have also been granted permission. The council outlined their belief that there were “no material considerations” that indicated the application should be refused and no objections were registered from consultees.
The design and access statement explains that the upgrade works planned for the hospital primarily comprise internal alterations. However, to provide “sufficient facilities”, two extensions were proposed. Now that planning approval has been granted, work is set to take place before the end of the year. Council documents state that the “internal alterations” will be made to the cardiovascular unit.
The proposed extensions would provide “changing facilities, storage and visitor rooms”. The northernmost extension is set to be two storeys in height and will have a footprint of 3.4m x 9.5m. The southern extension will only be accessed at first floor level (it will have brick pier support) and will have a footprint of 3.4m x 11m. It is clarified that the new extensions would use materials that match the existing elevations.
The now approved extensions are located within “a partially enclosed courtyard area,” with the area not being visible from any public areas, planning agent P+HS Architects explained. They said the land is predominantly soil along with a small tree and some shrub planting. As a result, new tree and grass planting has been proposed to offset the affected area, which will see an overall increase in biodiversity.
No objections were registered in response to the application and the council’s planning department was satisfied that the design and appearance of the proposed extensions was in accordance with both the principles of the National Planning Policy Framework and with local planning policies.
The reason for approval added that the proposed extensions and alterations to the existing windows are designed so that their appearance is “complementary” to the building.