When will works on site start?
The works have been tendered and a contractor appointed as well as governance approval from the NHS England National Team.
Now the site has been purchased we will commence at pace with works on site starting as soon as April 2026.
When will works complete?
The works could take around 12 months. We aim for completion in early 2027.
Will there be more parking?
The new facility will enable us to create additional parking spaces within the constraints of the available sites. As part of the design process, we reviewed feedback from the planning committee regarding the balance between increasing accessible parking and providing electric vehicle (EV) charging points.
Following an engagement exercise with our Patient Participation Group (PPG) to explore these options, we will also be introducing 2 new accessible parking bays as part of the development.
Will there be any access improvements (e.g., travel requirements and bus routes)?
We continue to encourage patients to consider alternative methods of travel to the practice—such as using public transport, walking, cycling, or car sharing—to help reduce pressure on our limited on-site parking. Access to the new annex will be through the main Norwich Road building, and we anticipate that all existing travel and access arrangements will remain fully available to patients. In addition, the creation of extra parking spaces as part of the project should further enhance overall accessibility to the site.
Have you considered patients and staff with access needs in the designs for the annex?
Ensuring that both patients and staff have easy access is a key priority for us. We are committed to providing an environment in which everyone has the same opportunity to receive high-quality care and feels safe, respected, and supported when visiting Cardinal Medical Practice.
The annex will be created within an existing building, which does present some limitations—particularly in relation to access to the first floor. However, we will ensure that any staff based in the annex have equitable access to other areas of our campus to mitigate these constraints. It is important to us that no one feels disadvantaged.
The ground floor of the annex will be fully accessible. A new pathway and sloped ramp will provide wheelchair-friendly access from the main Norwich Road building. The ground floor will also include accessible WC facilities and clinical rooms to ensure patients with mobility needs can access care without restriction. The main Norwich Road site is already fully accessible and includes a lift serving all floors.
We explored the option of installing a lift in the Inkerman building, but due to the structural complexities and the impact it would have on space available for clinical use, it was not considered feasible. Despite this, we remain committed to delivering an accessible and inclusive environment across our entire practice.