3 days ago
Big changes could be coming to St George’s Hospital in Tooting.
Plans have been submitted for a state-of-the-art renal unit, designed to revolutionise kidney care for patients across South-West London and Surrey. If given the green light, this ambitious project will bring together services currently split between St George’s and St Helier Hospital in Sutton, creating a central hub that promises better care and modern facilities.
For years, the existing renal services at both hospitals have struggled due to long-term underinvestment. The buildings aren’t up to scratch, and the services have become inefficient. This proposed hub aims to change all that. By consolidating everything into one purpose-built facility, the NHS Trust hopes to provide a better experience for patients and staff alike.
The Trust’s planning documents make a compelling case: “Neither service is as efficient as it should be.” With this new unit, they’re aiming to solve those problems once and for all.
The new renal centre would take over a former car park near the hospital’s Atkinson Morley Wing. This six-storey building is set to include:
Beyond the impressive facilities, the new hub would also open up opportunities for clinical trials. Bringing experts under one roof could help shape the future of kidney treatment, benefiting patients both locally and beyond.
This proposal is part of St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust’s 10-year plan to modernise its estate. Wandsworth Council’s planning officers are backing the scheme, calling it a “much-needed expansion of critical healthcare infrastructure.” The final decision lies with the Planning Committee, who will meet on January 14.
For the thousands of people in South-West London and Surrey who rely on kidney care, this isn’t just a building—it’s a lifeline. By improving capacity and efficiency, the new renal unit has the potential to transform lives. It’s a project that puts patients first and ensures the future of kidney care is brighter than ever.