Following the NHS Shetland Health Board meeting earlier today (Tuesday 29 April), approval has been granted to move forward with major repair work at the Gilbert Bain Hospital.
The essential works are expected to take place over the next two years, with completion anticipated during 2027. The project is estimated to cost around £10 million and will help ensure the hospital remains safe and fit for purpose for at least the next 10–15 years.
Over the past six months, NHS Shetland has been working closely with specialist contractors to assess the hospital’s structural condition. Detailed survey reports have now confirmed that while the building remains structurally safe for continued use, extensive remedial work is required to preserve and maintain the hospital.
Among the issues identified are areas where water ingress must be addressed, repairs and replacement of some external walls, restoring some of the external render, and replacing external blockwork where external walls are being replaced. This work is essential to ensure the building remains resilient, weather-tight, and functional for years to come.
A dedicated project team, which includes NHS Shetland staff, a design team, contractors, and representatives from partner organisations, has been working together to plan the next stages. We are also engaging closely with the Scottish Government, NHS Scotland Assure, and National Services Scotland to shape a detailed implementation plan based on the structural report recommendations.
Funding for this major project is being supported by the Scottish Government through its capital investment plan.
Some preparatory work has already taken place, including the temporary relocation of the Outpatients Department and the installation of scaffolding. These early steps are helping us prepare for the more substantial work ahead.
While many details are still being finalised, it is likely that some departments and services may need to be temporarily relocated to accommodate the refurbishment work. We want to reassure the community that any changes to services or access will be communicated clearly and well in advance and that maintaining full service capacity for the duration of the work is a priority.
We are fully committed to keeping disruption to a minimum throughout this project. Our top priority is to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for patients, visitors, and staff during the course of the works.
Gary Robinson, Shetland Health Board Chair, said: “We want to reassure everyone that the hospital remains structurally safe and operational. The work we are undertaking is about repairing our hospital and bringing it up to an acceptable standard, ensuring the building continues to serve our community for a number of years. While some disruption is unavoidable, we are planning carefully to minimise the impact on patients and staff. We are incredibly grateful for the support and patience of the community as we move through this important phase."
“We want to thank our community for their continued patience and support as we carry out this vital work.”
For more information or updates as the project progresses, please visit the NHS Shetland website - NHS Shetland – NHS Shetland