Gloucestershire Royal Hospital is set to undergo a crucial upgrade to its backup power system, ensuring reliable energy supply during power outages. The hospital’s energy centre, located off Great Western Road in Gloucester, has received planning approval for significant improvements.
The decision, confirmed by Gloucester City Council’s planning committee on April 7, addresses the urgent need to replace two of the hospital’s four existing backup generators. The replacement with larger, more powerful models is necessary to accommodate increased electrical demands due to hospital expansion and the growing reliance on advanced medical technology.
The upgrade involves installing new ancillary equipment within the energy centre and making external modifications, including the addition of fuel tanks, outlet attenuators, radiators, transformers, a chimney tower reaching 23 meters in height, and a switch room. Additionally, seven trees will be removed and minor site reconfiguration will be undertaken to make way for the expanded infrastructure.
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Planning officers assured the committee that the generators will primarily operate during power outages or scheduled maintenance, minimizing disturbance. Despite concerns about possible noise impact raised by some councillors, it was noted that modern technology and prior generator testing have demonstrated minimal noise and disruption to nearby residents.
Council members expressed strong support for the upgrade. Councillor Roseanna Marshall emphasized the importance of reliable power for medical equipment and surgical procedures. Councillor Andy Lewis described the project as a “no-brainer,” highlighting the critical nature of backup power for patient safety. Councillor Pam Tracey, while voting in favor, requested ongoing attention to noise considerations, and Councillor Stephanie Chambers sought assurance on security measures, which officers confirmed were in place.
Chairman Angela Conder, representing Kingsholm and Wotton, voiced confidence that noise would not be an issue, stating that in an emergency, the hospital’s uninterrupted power supply outweighs any potential inconvenience.
The unanimous vote to approve the upgrade marks a vital step toward enhancing Gloucester Royal Hospital’s capacity to deliver safe and uninterrupted healthcare services.