Monklands Politicians have reacted to reports that the brand-new Monklands Hospital is scheduled to be opened more than three years behind than initially planned and have called it “disappointing” however, they are pleased with the latest developments in the developing the business case.
NHS Lanarkshire announced last week that a revised timeline for the project with a delayed start to the groundwork work planned for Wester Moffat has been agreed which means that the new facility will be expected to open in 2031, not 2028, as was originally planned.
The Board members have said that the change which means that advance financing is no longer being sought prior to the outline business case has been approved and could “give an initiative the greatest chance to go forward with the process of approval” by giving more time to assess the financial situation of the health system in Scotland.
Neil Gray, the Airdrie MSP who campaigned for the hospital’s replacement to remain within the town in his previous position as the MP for the region.
He said to Lanarkshire Live: “Clearly a delay is disappointing because we’ve worked tirelessly for the construction of a new hospital as fast as is possible due to the state of the existing building.
“However I am delighted that the process of developing the business plan and overall work on planning is going on following the successful acquisition of Wester Moffat site; and I will continue working in conjunction with NHS Lanarkshire and colleagues in the Scottish Government to see the new hospital the people of Lanarkshire want and need as quickly as is possible.”
Ms. Qaisar was in agreement: “My constituents and I are eagerly awaiting the progress for the hospital on Wester Moffat.” Wester Moffat site.
“However it’s pleasing to know that the stakeholders and staff have made it to this point through the submission of the business case in draft form.
“Given the fact that our board of directors believes that there is a compelling argument for changing the timetable I will continue collaborate together with NHS Lanarkshire and the Scottish Government to ensure that we can get the proper launch of the brand new Monklands Hospital for my constituents and the greater North Lanarkshire area.”
The new timetable to build the PS400 million hospital was approved during last week’s NHS Lanarkshire board meeting, which was attended by the board members who officially approved the business case outline in its draft form and agreed to send it be made to the Scottish Government for formal approval.
Property, planning, and performance Director Colin Lauder said: “It was originally planned to start work on the ground next year, trying to get funding released earlier prior to the final approval of the entire business case. We are now scheduling work later in the timeframe at an time when there will likely to have greater clarity regarding the financial health that is NHS Scotland.
“The timeframe for the completion of the project is expected to shift from 2028 to 2031.
