We are close to being able to announce an opening date for the new multi-storey car park at CRH. So we have been speaking to two of the key faces behind the scenes – Head of Operations and Compliance, Dan Smith, and Head of Capital, Joe Stainton – to find out what’s been happening to get ready for opening.

How is the building shaping up?

The building is looking fantastic. In the last month we have really seen it coming to life on the inside. ANPR has been installed, lines have been all painted, EV chargers put in and signage is all in place.

The bottom floor is very pedestrian friendly for those who choose to come to CRH by public transport to the main bus stop on the A629. It’s all block paved with zebra crossings, and most importantly, provides shelter from the elements!

What building work is there left to complete before we can open the car park?

There is only minor work left before we open the car park, such as installing bollards and paving works. Because we are working to open the car park as soon as we possibly can to help with parking, people will see that there is some work which will continue throughout autumn which will put the finishing touches on the building. This includes a specially designed façade in keeping with the local area, and landscaping which will promote biodiversity.

What are you working on behind the scenes to get ready for opening?

On a building of this size, there are statutory checks that must be done to ensure that the building is safe, secure, and meets building regulations. We are in the final stages of completing these checks, and once all approved, we will be able to share the all important opening date.

Is there something in the car park that you are most proud of?

Dan said: “For me it is our commitment to sustainability. Down to choosing state-of-the-art EV chargers, to our fantastic free to use bike shelter and cycle maintenance area, it’s much more than just a car park. There will still be some finishing touches to the landscaping once we open the car park too, all of which will promote biodiversity on site – such as the installation of bird and bat boxes, and hedgerows to encourage wildlife to thrive.”

Joe said: “It is hard to choose. It is some of the little things we have done to be considerate to our neighbours and the wards and services facing the car park, for example headlight screens on every level and specialist tarmacking to reduce tyre noise, I think will really make a big impact. The other thing that is fantastic are the views across Halifax from the stairwells and the upper floors – it gives you a real reminder of the great location we are in.”

Do you have any messages for colleagues?

The new multi-storey is going to be a fantastic facility for our patients, visitors, and colleagues, especially as we get ready for construction of our new hospital building. Though we have lots of space in the multi-storey, it is important to still consider other ways to get to CRH which can be more cost effective and convenient, such as public transport (which colleagues can get a discounted MCard for) and making use of the fantastic cycle storage area.

Keep an eye out in our communications over the coming week, where we hope to be able to share an opening date very soon.