A MAJOR new surgical and diagnostic centre could transform healthcare at Salisbury District Hospital with residents now being invited to help shape the plans.

Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust has launched a public engagement process on proposals for a new Diagnostic and Surgical Hub (DASH), a significant investment that would modernise the hospital’s ageing facilities and expand the range of services available.

Subject to approval, the purpose-built hub would include five operating theatres, MRI and CT scanners, and four endoscopy rooms, creating dedicated space for planned operations and diagnostic tests.

Hospital leaders said separating planned care from emergency and urgent services will help reduce delays, improve patient flow and provide a better experience for patients and staff alike.

Trust managing director Nick Johnson said: “This is a major milestone and represents a significant investment in the future of our hospital.

“The new facility will replace our ageing surgical facilities, expand our diagnostic capacity, and provide modern, purpose-built environments that will enable us to see patients more quickly and deliver high-quality care for many years to come.”

The trust expects to submit a planning application to Wiltshire Council later this month, with construction likely to begin in early 2027 if the project receives approval.

As part of the consultation, members of the public can view the proposals online, visit an exhibition in the hospital’s Springs Restaurant or attend a drop-in event at Salisbury Guildhall on Tuesday, July 7, between 10am and 6.30pm, where they will be able to meet the project team and ask questions.

The trust said feedback will help it understand “local views” before the plans progress further.

Residents have until Friday, July 17 to submit comments through the online feedback form, by post or at one of the exhibition venues.

To find out more, visit https://www.salisbury.nhs.uk/about-us/new-diagnostic-and-surgical-hub-dash/