Ballymoney: spring start for new-build extension at Robinson Hospital
The Northern Health and Social Care Trust board has been given an update on the proposed refurbishment of the Robinson Hospital at Newal Road, Ballymoney.
Robinson Hospital, which opened in 1933, provides care for patients requiring rehabilitation, palliative care or further assessment following an acute hospital admission.
A report to Trust board members, at a recent meeting, said the project will provide a new-build extension attached to the existing Robinson Memorial Hospital, housing five new individual en-suite bedrooms, an occupational therapy/physio rehabilitation room and a designated staff area as well as a new plant room.
The contractor is due to commence on-site on April 1 with construction works due to be completed by July 2027, the report stated.
It indicated that £1.73m capital costs for the project will be funded by the Robinson Hospital Charitable Trust Funds and £640k funding held privately by the Robinson Board of Trustees.
Additional funding of £404k is required with allocations due in 2027/28 with additional costs of almost £46k in 2027/28 and £58k, from 2028/29 onwards, for utility and cleaning.
Board members were also told whilst construction works are taking place, the Northern Trust will be able to keep open 16 beds in the ward and five beds will be outsourced to the independent sector.
It was noted the cost per bed in the independent sector is estimated to be £1,300 per week so the costs required for the 16-month period would be £451,880 with £338,910 being incurred in 2026/2027 and £112,970, in 2027/2028. It was also stated staffing costs would be reduced during the same period.
The Northern Trust has acknowledged previously the refurbishment has been made possible thanks to a charitable donation from the Robinson Trust.
In an online statement on the Trust’s website, Diane Spence, director of community care, said: “While the building itself is still in very good condition, some of the facilities within are outdated and not in keeping with modern-day improvements in delivery of care.
“We are delighted to receive this very generous donation to be able to undertake this extension project which will undoubtedly improve patient experience.
“This investment will also secure the future of the hospital and signals our long-term commitment to our staff. Patients will also benefit from the creation of a dedicated rehabilitation space.
Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter