Design team appointed for new LUH surgical hub
The Design Team has now been appointed to the development of the new Surgical Hub and Ambulatory Hub at LUH
HSE West and North West have announced that a design team has been appointed for the new Surgical Hub and Ambulatory Hub Development at Letterkenny University Hospital.
The Design Team, led by Architects HLM & Kevin Jackson Architects, will soon commence the design stages of the Ambulatory Hub development, which will comprise a Surgical Hub and Ambulatory Oncology at Letterkenny University Hospital.
Pat the Cope Gallagher TD, Fianna Fáil, has received confirmation from the Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD, that the new hub will include two theatres and two minor operating rooms, significantly expanding surgical capacity at LUH.
The new two-theatre surgical hub will be located beside the existing hospital building, along with the addition of 30 ambulatory day oncology chairs (15 new and 15 replacement). This dual investment will enhance both surgical and cancer treatment services in Donegal.
Once operational, it will cater for thousands of day‑cases, minor operations and outpatient consultations every year, providing more consistent and timely access to care for patients across Donegal and the wider North‑West. Elective procedures expected to be carried out include biopsies, carpal tunnel treatments and tonsillectomies, among many others.
The design of the new surgical hub will allow for future vertical expansion, addressing the long-term need for additional bed capacity in the region. A full Development Control Plan (DCP) for the Letterkenny University Hospital site has been commissioned to guide the sequencing of future developments.
It is anticipated that the design team will commence the design stages in August 2026, with planning anticipated to be lodged in Q2 2027. Plans for the new surgical hub located in Sligo are also progressing.
Dermot Monaghan, Integrated Healthcare Area Manager, Donegal said, “This is very positive news for Letterkenny University Hospital. The new facility will be an important addition to LUH and to the people that avail of its services.”
Deputy Gallagher was high in his praise for Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, acknowledging her hands‑on approach since their initial meeting following her appointment. At that time, the prospect of securing a Surgical Hub for Letterkenny appeared uncertain, but her direct engagement and commitment have helped turn a once‑gloomy outlook into a clear and deliverable reality.
He emphasised that it is now essential for both the HSE and the Department of Health to fully support the LUH team in advancing the project through every stage, particularly given the tight delivery timeline. He also stressed the importance of ring‑fenced financial commitments to ensure the project is completed on schedule and meets the long‑term needs of the region.
The hub will be designed with future expansion in mind, and a full Development Control Plan will be commissioned for the hospital site. The HSE will now move into the design phase and prepare planning applications to progress the project as quickly as possible.
Pat the Cope concluded: “This investment will make a real and lasting difference to people’s lives. It represents hope for better, faster care closer to home. I look forward to seeing these much‑needed services delivered for patients and families in our community. My commitment to improving services and care in Letterkenny University Hospital is total. Letterkenny needs this investment.”