Construction work starts on first phase of Ruthin Hospital redevelopment

Redevelopment work to bring a range of health services under one roof at Ruthin Hospital has begun.

Contractor Read Construction has already started work on the car park as the first phase a £3.1m renovation scheme to improve facilities at the community hospital.

Working practices have been put in place to support social distancing, keeping construction workers, staff and patients at the hospital, and the general public safe.

The first phase of the internal works will see a new therapies unit developed at the hospital, creating up-to-date facilities for services including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and podiatry to work from.

The redevelopment work will mean less travel for patients and staff between sites for appointments and diagnostics, making treatment easier and more accessible.

Other parts of the development include a new GP surgery, community services including health visitors, and services for older people with mental health problems.

As part of the plan the GP Surgery at The Clinic, Ruthin will move from the existing premises which have been deemed not fit for purpose.

The Clinic Surgery, on Mount Street serves nearly 3,000 patients and services will be transferred to the redeveloped Ruthin Community Hospital into new GP surgery premises.

The existing Hospital League of Friends will also move to a central location at the front of the hospital, and space will be provided for third sector services, and activities such as mother and toddler groups.

Gareth Evans, project director for the redevelopment, said: “We’re really excited to see work starting on Ruthin Hospital, and have to give credit to our contractor Read Construction for continuing to get work ready despite the challenge of COVID-19.

“We’re looking forward to seeing work progress on the first phase of the redevelopment over the next three months or so.”

Alex Read, director from Read Construction said: “We’ve spent the last few weeks developing additional car park and a temporary access road to the site.

“Now that that work is complete, we’re ready to start on the internal work at the hospital.

“Everyone on site is following guidelines from the Construction Leadership Council and government legislation to ensure a safe and compliant working environment for all.”

The project supports the integration of community and primary care teams and co-location of teams and services, helping bring hospital services closer to people’s homes.