NHS Highland has announced two significant milestones in the development of the new Lochaber Hospital, as the project continues to gather momentum toward delivering modern healthcare facilities for the communities of Fort William and the wider Lochaber area.
The formal planning application for the proposed new 11,800m² Lochaber Hospital has been submitted to Highland Council by Keppie Design, on behalf of Balfour Beatty and NHS Highland. The submission marks a major milestone in the project, bringing the vision of a purpose-built replacement for the existing Belford Hospital closer to reality.
The proposed new hospital has been designed to deliver modern, high-quality healthcare facilities that meet the evolving needs of patients, staff and visitors. The design reflects a commitment to creating a welcoming, sustainable and resilient environment that enhances patient experience, supports efficient clinical delivery, and responds sensitively to the unique landscape and identity of Lochaber. Low-carbon and sustainable design principles are embedded throughout.
Fiona Davies, Chief Executive of NHS Highland, said: "The submission of the planning application is a truly exciting moment for NHS Highland and for the communities of Lochaber. This project has been shaped by listening carefully to patients, staff and local people, and it is wonderful to see that vision now formally presented for planning consideration. The new hospital will support the transformation of health and social care in this area for generations to come, and I look forward to continuing to work with our partners and the community as we take the next steps forward."
Also this week, NHS Highland convened an Option Appraisal Workshop bringing together community stakeholders, Belford Hospital staff, and NHS Highland Executive Directors to assess and score the range of options under consideration for the project. The workshop forms a key part of the Outline Business Case, which is now being finalised.
The Option Appraisal process follows HM Treasury Green Book guidance, ensuring that investment decisions deliver the best possible value for the public. Participants reviewed and scored options against agreed non-financial benefit criteria using a weighted scoring method that is a transparent, qualitative process designed to ensure the preferred solution is selected on the basis of what best serves patients, staff and the wider community.
The involvement of community representatives and frontline hospital staff alongside NHS Highland's Executive Directors reflects the project's commitment to inclusive, evidence-based decision-making at every stage.
With the planning application now submitted, a determination is anticipated by the end of June. The Outline Business Case, incorporating the outcomes of this week's Option Appraisal, represents the next key gateway in progressing the project.
NHS Highland remains committed to keeping communities informed and engaged as the project develops.