The UK Government has officially approved funding for the redevelopment of James Paget University Hospital (JPUH) in Great Yarmouth, a flagship project under Wave 1 of the New Hospital Programme (NHP). Designed by global architecture firm Perkins&Will, the hospital’s transformation—scheduled for completion by 2032—aims to deliver future-ready healthcare infrastructure for the East Anglia region.
As one of seven hospitals built with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) prioritized for replacement, the JPUH redevelopment will serve over 300,000 residents and thousands of seasonal visitors. The project represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to modernize healthcare services and catalyze regional economic growth.
“This is a significant moment for our hospital, and for the future of health and care services in our community,” said Jo Segasby, Chief Executive, James Paget University Hospital. “Our new hospital is an opportunity that may come once in a generation.”
A Visionary Masterplan for Health and Community
Developed in collaboration with stakeholders, the Future Paget Programme masterplan is guided by Hospital 2.0 principles from the NHP, integrating regenerative design, modular construction, and patient-centered innovation. Highlights include:
- A welcoming new arrival area with pedestrian-first landscaping and community space.
- Safe, green campus design with separated vehicle flow and maximized biodiversity.
- Integrated sustainable infrastructure including drainage, parking, and open space.
- A central “hospital street” connecting courtyards and terraces, designed for future expansion.
“The James Paget University Hospital is a fantastic opportunity to provide the people of Great Yarmouth and the wider community with healthcare facilities that are fit for now and for the future,” said Rafael Marks, Principal, Perkins&Will.
Economic Catalyst and Community Engagement
The hospital’s redevelopment will be one of the largest construction projects in the region for decades. Contractor procurement is underway, with outline planning submission expected in July 2025. Drop-in events across Great Yarmouth and Waveney will invite public feedback on the refreshed design.
“Working with our architect partner Perkins&Will, we will soon be able to share our refreshed masterplan with the public,” said Mark Flynn, Director of Strategic Projects, JPUH.
The New Hospital Programme has recognized the JPUH plan as a model of exemplary design and methodology. A recent site visit by NHP delegates emphasized the alignment of clinical needs, sustainability, and future-proof construction.
“The new hospital will enhance the patient experience and make the hospital a better place to work for staff,” said Josie Rudman, NHP Transformation Director and Chief Nurse.
PROJECT DETAILS
- Location: Lowestoft Rd, Gorleston-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth NR31 6LA
- Client: James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
- Design & Architecture: Perkins&Will
- Engineering & Sustainability: WSP
- Landscape & Public Realm: Allies and Morrison
- MMC/Site Logistics: Aligned Design Studio
More information:
James Paget University Hospital New Build
NHP Implementation Plan
About Perkins&Will
Perkins&Will is a global design firm dedicated to human-centric, environmentally responsible architecture. With over 30 studios worldwide, the firm has earned accolades including Interior Design’s 2024 “Sustainability Giant”, Architizer’s “Best Sustainable Firm”, and Fast Company’s “Brands That Matter.” Learn more at www.perkinswill.com.
