The Royal Devon has started work on phase one of their Pathology Consolidated Services Laboratory (CSL) at Gadeon House, Exeter.

Phase one of the programme will see Blood Sciences and Microbiology services move from the RD&E (Wonford) and NDDH to the new CSL from March 2027. Urgent and emergency Pathology services will remain at both acute sites, in smaller laboratories. Options for Cellular Pathology to move to Gadeon House or to consolidate at RD&E (Wonford) in the short term are currently being developed.

The finalised CSL programme was approved at the Royal Devon board earlier this year following extensive assessment of estate options, service needs, national policy direction and the strategic requirements of the Peninsula Pathology Network (PPN).

The PPN vision is to create a sustainable model of pathology across the south-west peninsula that helps patient pathways to be as effective and efficient as possible.

Current Pathology facilities at both RD&E (Wonford) and NDDH are outdated, constrained, and no longer fit for modern, automated laboratory practice. The CSL will deliver resilience and fit for the future services that ensure patients receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time.

Moving services from our acute sites to Gadeon House will deliver a modern, purpose-built laboratory environment with improved workflow and automation and room for future growth. Moving Pathology services from our acute locations will also allow for the development of new and improved clinical spaces at those sites.