November 3, 2026

McBains celebrates IHEEM award for Bradford Endoscopy Unit

McBains is celebrating the success of Bradford Royal Infirmary’s Endoscopy Unit, which has been named New Build Project of the Year at the 2026 IHEEM Healthcare Estates Awards.

Exterior of the new Bradford Royal Infirmary endoscopy unit, showing a modern glazed façade connected to historic hospital buildings.

Working with the wider project team, McBains provided NEC Supervisor services for Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, supporting contract compliance, quality assurance and communication between stakeholders, helping keep delivery aligned with the project’s agreed requirements.

The £25m purpose-built facility opened to patients in March 2026 and provides eight procedure rooms, along with 32 private patient pods - each with its own en-suite bathroom, giving patients a dedicated space for admission, preparation and recovery. A direct link to the main hospital serves inpatients, while a separate outpatient entrance allows the Trust to keep patient routes apart when required.

Construction was completed on time and within budget on a constrained site beside operational theatres, while disruption to the hospital’s ongoing services was kept to a minimum. The new facility has increased the Trust’s endoscopy capacity, supporting more appointments and helping reduce waiting lists.

Sustainability measures include air source heat pumps, rooftop photovoltaic panels and energy-efficient lighting with intelligent controls. The building achieved a BREEAM Very Good rating, with its fabric-first design helping to limit energy demand.

Bright endoscopy unit corridor with reception desk, timber doors and yellow ceiling feature panels.

Bright endoscopy room with wall‑mounted screens, ceiling‑mounted equipment columns, clinical cabinetry and blue feature panels.

Rob Kirton, Senior Clerk of Works at McBains, said: “This award is welcome recognition for a project that puts patients’ needs at the centre of its design. From the private en-suite pods to the separate patient routes, the unit shows how carefully planned healthcare buildings can support dignity, comfort and the delivery of care.

“As NEC Supervisor, our focus was on supporting quality and contract compliance throughout construction, working closely with the wider team. We’re proud to have contributed to this facility and congratulate the Trust and everyone involved on the award.”