Austin-Smith:Lord gets green light for new community hospital in Scottish Highlands
Austin-Smith:Lord has gained planning permission for a new £8m hospital at Bonar Bridge in Central Sutherland in the Scottish Highlands. Migdale Community Hospital will be designed and delivered for NHS Highland by the practice’s Glasgow office.
The new hospital will replace the existing 150-year old Migdale Hospital, which no longer meets current NHS standards. The new building will provide 22 inpatient bed spaces, dining spaces and a range of day and outpatient consultation and therapy facilities.
The design evolved from a close consultation process between architect and client. Key factors include: maximising enjoyment of the spectacular views of the Kyle of Sutherland to the South West by elevating beds; creating an ‘open living’ environment with contemplative day facilities to the rear of the site; developing a building section to suit sloping site topology; maintaining flexibility for potential future extensions; and providing a sustainable approach to building design (The building has an anticipated B+ energy rating.). Architecture and Design Scotland were involved in the detailed consultation process.
NHS Highland Sutherland Locality General Manager Georgia Haire said the granting of planning permission for the new hospital was “an important milestone in a programme of improvements to the provision of services for older adults in Sutherland”.
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