The Children’s Paediatric Assessment Unit (PAU) at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital marks the fourth phase in the ongoing refurbishment of the hospital’s Emergency Department. The project involved transforming a disused courtyard into a purpose-built extension to support paediatric emergency care. The new facility includes treatment rooms, assessment cubicles, clinical support spaces, and shared waiting areas, along with improved external access. In parallel, works also included the renewal of the roof over the adjacent Imaging Department and external enhancements around the Emergency Department entrance.

Working within a live hospital environment, a carefully phased approach was implemented to minimise disruption to surrounding clinical services. The transformation of the courtyard space required detailed coordination to integrate the new extension seamlessly with the existing Emergency Department layout. We prioritised functionality, accessibility, and the needs of young patients in the design and construction of the unit. Alongside the main extension, we carried out essential works to renew the roof of the adjacent Imaging Department, ensuring continued protection and performance of key clinical infrastructure. External improvements were also delivered to enhance the arrival experience and accessibility around the ED entrance.

The new Paediatric Assessment Unit significantly improves the provision of emergency care for children at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital. It provides a modern, dedicated environment designed to support both clinical efficiency and a more comfortable experience for young patients and their families.

By delivering this important new facility as part of the wider Emergency Department upgrade, the project strengthens the hospital’s capacity to respond to increasing demand while ensuring the highest standards of paediatric care.