FAQs
Why are you doing this?
Our commitment remains unwavering – we are 100% dedicated to providing quality hospice care in Canterbury. This decision ensures the long-term future of that commitment. We are building upon the foundations that Ann Robertson laid. This is the next chapter in the Pilgrims Hospices story. Modernising London Road will ensure Canterbury retains a fit-for-purpose hospice care facility to sustain high-quality care for many years to come.
What are the plans for London Road?
Pilgrims Hospices will appoint a design and project management team to deliver the modernisation of London Road. The designs will carefully be considered, respecting the character of the local area. We envisage retaining all of the buildings except for the in-patient unit towards the rear of the site which we will demolish and replace - but there will be no increase in height.
How long will this take?
We will start designing the scheme shortly, with a planning application submission expected before the end of 2025. With planning permission required, construction is unlikely to begin until late 2026. However, operationally, London Road will continue as normal for at least the next two years.
Are you doing any consultation?
Once the designs have been developed, we will be inviting you to view and provide feedback on our proposals later this year, before submitting a planning application to Canterbury City Council.
Will there be any change to the services you provide?
Inpatient services will inevitably be affected during the construction period but we will be developing plans to ensure that the impact on patients is minimised. It is important to remember that the vast majority of how we support patients takes place in the community and this will continue without any disruption. We will support patients and families for the duration of the modernisation project and will provide full updates throughout the project. We will keep everyone updated on our website. In the meantime, we will aim to be here for every patient, every family, every time they need us.