The main restaurant at the Royal Preston Hospital has undergone a makeover, including the creation of new artworks depicting the history of the city.

FWP led the redevelopment of The Charters Restaurant, creating an inviting, modern and bright space, which includes a dedicated area where hospital staff can relax and have food and drink while on shift.

And the space includes a bespoke mural designed by local artist David Robinson, from DaveRob Design, who was commissioned to create a striking montage of the city’s landmarks, famous people, and characters.

The mural includes depictions of Preston North End legend, Sir Tom Finney; the Guild Wheel; and the iconic clock at the Brutalist Preston Bus Station – showing the time set at 20:00 as a mark of respect to colleagues, signifying when the ‘Clap for Carers’ took place during the pandemic.

Recognising staff

And it was endorsed by Preston-born Nick Park, who gave permission to include one of his most famous creations, Wallace and Gromit, as a thank you to NHS staff for their efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

With seating for around 230 people, the restaurant also connects directly to a new garden area which includes a hand-crafted steel memorial tree where names of those who have donated organs will be engraved onto leaves.

David Simmons, FWP senior associate who led on the project, said: “We have given a fresh new look to what was a much used but tired space.

“The Charters Restaurant plays an important role in the hospital as its main restaurant and café area. The refurbishment has created a clean and bright eating and meeting place that is both modern and spacious and very far removed from the traditional hospital ‘canteen’ feel.

A talking point

“The Preston montage that has been created is a great feature and will be a fantastic talking point for visitors.

“And the new garden adds to the light and open feel of the restaurant, with its striking memorial tree another focal point for visitors and staff alike. Delivery of the project was very much a team effort and we worked very closely with the trust throughout.”

The improvements were made possible thanks to funding of £70,000 from Lancashire Teaching Hospitals Charity team and a £65,000 grant application from NHS Charities Together, which enabled the procurement of furnishings and a new 24-hour kitchenette facility. A further £4,900 was used to provide new conservatory blinds and the iconic mural.

D&G Builders and Joiners, based in Chorley, carried out the construction work on the project and the furniture was provided by Manchester-based Telegraph Contract Furniture, with the artwork printed and fitted by Preston-based specialist, Lustalux.