Robertson starts multi-million-pound RAAC replacement at Royal Bolton Hospital maternity unit

The replacement of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC), identified in the existing structure in 2023, is a key element of the £38m redevelopment of the unit. The project will deliver modern facilities for women, babies, and families across Bolton and beyond.

Work will be carried out in phases to allow maternity services to remain fully open including all antenatal and postnatal care. In addition to the RAAC replacement work, Robertson will also carry out theatre refurbishments, replacement of mechanical ventilation and rooftop plant installation. The first families are expected to be welcomed to the new unit in early 2027.

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. 

Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: “This marks an important step forward not just in addressing the immediate challenges posed by RAAC, but in creating modern, safe, and welcoming healthcare environments that will serve generations to come. We are working in close partnership with the NHS to deliver high-quality spaces that enable staff to focus on what matters most – patient care. It’s a privilege to support Bolton NHS Foundation Trust on such a vital transformation.”

Tyrone Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, added: “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.”

The groundbreaking ceremony was led by representatives from the Trust and Robertson Construction North West, with colleagues from the Trust’s estates partners iFM Bolton, and women’s health and maternity teams. 

Robertson is committed to enhancing the lives of the people in the communities they work in, by developing work placements and apprenticeships, and will seek opportunities to do so throughout the lifespan of this projects.