Iconic architects' £50m hospital

Natural light and air will be a priority

The creators of some of the world's most iconic structures are submitting plans for a new hospital which could generate profits for its nurses.

The £50m private facility in Plymouth, Devon, would be co-owned and run by the staff who work in it, under a model based on the John Lewis Partnership.

The hospital is a collaboration between independent healthcare company Circle and the Regional Development Agency.

Renowned architects Foster and Partners have drawn up the plans.

Staff rewards

The firm plans to create a naturally ventilated building at a site on Derriford Business Park in Plymouth, with head of design Spencer De Gray saying they wanted to "provide fresh air and views".

Circle said that every member of staff at the model hospital would share in the benefits and profits of the business - a model used by the John Lewis Partnership.

"Everyone is rewarded by their contribution," said Rory Coonan, head of architecture, design and planning for Circle (Health Properties Ltd).

The company said the hospital would offer people more choice in healthcare and as an independent centre, would treat both private and NHS patients.

Fresh air

Architects Foster and Partners, headed by Sir Norman Foster, is also behind the world's highest and largest viaduct across the Tarn Gorge in France.

The company also built the gherkin building in London, the world's largest airport building in Hong Kong and the Millennium bridge.

Mr De Gray said the concepts of light and air raised morale amongst staff and would help patients recover quicker.

Primary care trusts for Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall, who are responsible for NHS services, said the new hospital was good news for patients.

A spokesperson for Plymouth PCT said: "It will give people greater choice in how, where and when they're treated."

The 68,000 permanent staff of the John Lewis Partnership's stores all part-own the businesses, and share in profits and benefits.