Work is set to start of Orkney’s new £60million hospital in “the very near future” after the final hurdle for the project was cleared.
Councillors granted the major new facility planning permission yesterday – paving the way for the scheme to proceed.
The project is the biggest in NHS Orkney’s history and will replace Kirkwall’s Balfour Hospital and other health services in the islands.
The health board hope that the new facility will cut the dependence on sending patients to the Scottish mainland for treatment.
Planning committee members gave their blessing with one minor recommended adjustment involving moving a planned pedestrian path to protect a buffer zone around the hospital.
The plans were submitted by contractor Robertson Capital Projects who were appointed to the development earlier this year.
The hospital has previously won the backing of the Scottish Government which approved the health board’s business case last month.
Cathie Cowan, NHS Orkney chief executive, said: “The board is delighted that Robertson has achieved this important milestone, which, with the approval of the board’s full business case by Scottish Government last month, allows us to finalise the contract in the coming weeks.
“We look forward to seeing a start on site in the very near future.”
The new building, which will be established on the outskirts of Kirkwall, will include the relocated Skerryvore and Heilendi GP practices, as well as King Street dental services.
The health board and Robertson are now working on finalising legal and commercial agreements in order to reach financial close.
Neil McCormick, managing director, Robertson Capital Projects said: “We are delighted that the planning application was presented with recommendation for approval at today’s meeting.
“Our team has worked extensively with Orkney Islands Council planning officials since our appointment as preferred bidder, and I believe today’s formal approval reflects those positive engagement efforts.
“Working in close collaboration with NHS Orkney we have continued to foster positive relationships with local stakeholders as part of our commitment to community benefits, and we look forward to continuing this close working relationship with all parties as we deliver a building of the highest design and quality standards for the NHS and Orcadian community.”