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Hospital beds in care facility

Royal Bolton Hospital Maternity RAAC Replacement

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Summary

Sector
Healthcare
Value
£24million
Location
North West England
Status
Live
Customer
Bolton Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Completion
2027
Duration
2 years, 6 months
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Enhancing patient safety, care and clinical excellence

Robertson Construction North West has started a modern redevelopment of the Maternity and Women’s Health Unit at Royal Bolton Hospital, addressing the presence of RAAC identified in 2023. Delivered through ProCure23 framework, the project includes revitalised theatres, upgraded ventilation systems, and rooftop plant enhancements. Work is being conducted in phases to ensure services remain operational throughout the refurbishment. Completion is expected in early 2027.  

£38m

redevelopment

62 bed

maternity suite 

3

fully functional theatres

Strategic phasing to ensure care never stops

Working on a live maternity environment demands precision, strategic planning, and a deep sense of care, qualities Robertson brings to every stage of this project. With only one theatre accessible at a time, the work is being meticulously phased to ensure uninterrupted maternity, antenatal, and postnatal services.

To maintain full operational capacity, temporary rooms have been installed, enabling staff to continue their work and patients to receive essential care without disruption.

Each phase is carefully coordinated with hospital staff and the client to minimise impact while delivering high-quality outcomes that improve both performance and energy efficiency.

Internal hoardings are constructed from PVC to allow for thorough cleaning, supporting infection control and safeguarding immunosuppressed patients. Robust dust mitigation systems are in place to reduce respiratory risks.

Patient comfort remains a top priority, with noise levels continuously monitored and benchmarked. A trusted supply chain, experienced in complex hospital environments has also been selected to ensure the work meets the highest standards of safety and quality.

A patient-first approach to construction

Thoughtfully designed to meet the evolving needs of women, families, and newborns, the hospital’s transformation places patient care and comfort at its core.  

A comprehensive refurbishment of the operating theatres and adjoining ancillary spaces will deliver a clinical environment of the best performing standard.  

The addition of a 62-bed maternity suite, three fully functioning theatres, and four birthing rooms will help ease pressure on neighbouring maternity units across the borough, improving patient flow and supporting staff efficiency. Upgrades to the mechanical ventilation system will enhance well-being, providing consistent temperature regulation to support patients and their families. As part of the preparation, essential asbestos removal and the strip-out of Level 1 walls was carried out with safety and long-term health as the top priority. 

Transforming spaces with energy-efficient design features

While the building retains its original structure, key alterations have been made to support net zero lighting and enhance overall energy efficiency. Photovoltaic (PV) panels and solar windows not only generate renewable energy but also help regulate internal temperatures, reducing the risk of overheating.  

As an alternative to traditional radiators, temperature control is provided through an air handling plant, utilising natural resources and low-emission gases. Though the building will not be fully reclad, a modern façade treatment will significantly refresh its appearance, giving the currently tired, ageing structure a more dynamic and welcoming feel for patients and visitors. 

Procurement route

Bolton NHS Foundation Trust appointed WeBuild Healthcare as main contractor with Robertson as the delivery partner through Lot 2 of ProCure23. This is part of Crown Commercial Service's Construction Works and Associated Services Framework. ProCure23 supports the delivery of healthcare infrastructure across England and is NHS England's preferred route to market for the provision of design and construction services to NHS capital projects.

“This is a really exciting time for maternity and women’s health services here in Bolton, the first steps in what will be a fantastic development for families now, and for many future years to come. We’re looking forward to the families of Bolton and beyond starting their journeys together, in a modern environment that will be fit for not only them, but future generations.”
Tyrone Roberts
Chief Nursing Officer, Bolton NHS Foundation Trust