The hospital earned the recognition for its new Women and Children’s Building, which is in the running for the "Towards Net Zero Award" at the 2026 HSJ Awards. It is the first NHS building in England completed to the NHS Net Zero Building Standard, and stands out for its sustainability and design. Jane Tomkinson OBE, chief executive of the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: "This building has put Chester on the map. At a cost of £110 million, the Women and Children’s Building is fully electric, gas-free, and has earned a BREEAM Excellent rating, placing it among the most energy-efficient healthcare buildings in the country. The building was designed with input from staff, patients, and the wider community.