The development creates a new front door for urgent and emergency care at NGH and patients attending the centre will be assessed promptly on arrival and directed to the most appropriate care pathway, whether that is urgent treatment, emergency care or specialist paediatric services.

Polly Grimmett, director of strategy, said: ‘This investment represents an important step forward for healthcare in Northamptonshire and demonstrates our commitment to providing high-quality care for the communities we serve.

‘The new urgent treatment centre provides modern facilities for patients and staff and supports our ambition to deliver excellent care in an environment designed around the needs of those who use it.

‘As demand for NHS services continues to grow, investments such as this are vital to ensuring local people can access the care they need, when they need it, while supporting our staff to provide the best possible experience for patients.

‘We are grateful to the many colleagues, partners and contractors whose dedication and expertise have helped bring this development to life.'

Kelvin Moulding, managing director of contractor, Health Spaces, said: ‘We're incredibly proud to have worked alongside University Hospitals of Northamptonshire to bring this project to life. Delivering a new urgent care environment at pace, whilst maintaining critical emergency department services at all times, is a significant undertaking, and the strength of the partnership across the project team has been fundamental to its success.'