Project News
The new Women and Children's Building becomes first in England approved under NHS Net Zero Building Standard
by AHR
The AHR-designed building at the Countess of Chester Hospital showcases sustainable design, setting a new standard for energy-efficient, net zero carbon healthcare facilities in England.
Achieving net zero carbon accreditation
The building’s net zero carbon status was not an afterthought, but the natural outcome of considered design decisions. Resulting in:
- 25% lower upfront carbon than required under the Standard
- 220 MWh annual energy savings through high-efficiency building services
- Achieving BREEAM Excellent (top 10% UK buildings for energy efficiency)
This reflects our philosophy that sustainability must be embedded from day one, not added as a ‘bolt-on’. By aligning environmental performance with functionality and wellbeing, the building shows how hospitals can achieve the highest standards of sustainability without compromise.
You can read the NHS announcement here
A people-first approach
From the very beginning, the project was shaped through extensive engagement with staff, patients, families and local partners. This inclusive process ensured the building reflects the needs of its community.
Inside, the building offers bright, light-filled wards and family spaces, alongside quiet landscaped gardens that provide moments of reflection and calm. The design also supports healthcare professionals, with staff breakout areas and layouts that create a sense of dignity and calm.
The people who are going to be most impacted by climate change are the ones being born here. We have an obligation to start the journey now.”
Gareth Banks
Director and Healthcare Sector LeadA hospital for the future
Flexibility was a key principle in the design. The new building has been created to support the Trust’s services as they evolve, ensuring its facilities remain relevant and effective for years to come. Its family-centred environments, sustainable infrastructure and patient-focused spaces combine to create a hospital that balances innovation with care.
Delivering a net zero carbon hospital within one of the most complex sectors is a significant achievement and shows that low energy design can be delivered in harmony within people focused healthcare solutions.
This project sets a new benchmark for the NHS and wider healthcare sector, proving that sustainable hospitals can be delivered while enhancing wellbeing, attracting and retaining staff and providing outstanding environments for care.
Learn more about the Countess of Chester Hospital’s Women and Children’s Building
Frequently asked questions
The Countess of Chester Hospital's Women and Children’s Building is a newly built, 12,210 sqm healthcare facility in Chester, designed by AHR. It is the UK’s first NHS hospital building to achieve net zero carbon in operation, while placing patient wellbeing and staff support at its core.
The new hospital building is located at the Countess of Chester Hospital, Chester, Cheshire, North West England.
The design includes bright wards, family spaces, landscaped gardens and staff breakout areas. It connects people to nature and creates calm, dignified environments for both patients and healthcare staff.
It means the building’s day-to-day operations – heating, cooling, lighting and power – result in zero net carbon emissions, achieved through energy efficiency and sustainable design solutions.
The Countess of Chester Hospital project proves that net zero hospitals are achievable in the NHS. It sets a benchmark for future healthcare projects across the UK, showing how sustainability, patient wellbeing and staff support can be delivered together.
Posted on:
Oct 1st 2025
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