A new plaque recognises the “invaluable contribution” played by Harrogate Convention Centre during the covid pandemic.
The plaque was unveiled yesterday to coincide with the third anniversary of the convention centre being converted from an event and conference space into a 500-bed NHS Nightingale Hospital within three weeks.
The hospital — one of seven built across the country — did not treat a single covid patient but was used to carry out non-coronavirus diagnostic tests and outpatient appointments.
It was stood down in April 2021 before being dismantled. An inquiry later revealed the facility cost £31.6 million.
The convention centre was also chosen as part of the government’s events research programme pilot to help get audiences back safely into the wider events sector as restrictions eased.
Cllr Cooper unveils the plaque
Councillor Richard Cooper, leader of Harrogate Borough Council and chair of Harrogate Convention Centre board, unveiled the plaque. He said:
“I am delighted to be able to unveil the plaque that recognise the invaluable contribution that Harrogate Convention Centre made during the covid pandemic.
“It was no small feat to transform an exhibition and events venue into a fully operational hospital within 21 days. Even more so, when the advice at the time was to stay safe and stay at home.”
Craige Richardson, executive director of estates and facilities at Leeds Teaching Hospitals, said:
“As lead trust for the region, LTHT played an instrumental role in the commissioning process, from the initial site selection to the construction works and supply of medical gases.
“The Nightingale team worked around the clock to build the hospital and plan how it would work clinically. At times it seemed like an impossible task, and it was down to the commitment and hard work of every involved that it was up and running within 21-days.”
The hospital was built in collaboration with BAM, Leeds Teaching Hospitals, the British Army, NG Bailey, Silcock Leedham, Roses Medical and Brebur.
Pic shows: Staff from Harrogate Convention Centre and officials at the plaque unveiling.
Read more:
- Inquiry reveals Harrogate Nightingale cost £31.6 million
- NHS writes off £13m in Nightingale hospital beds cost