The Scottish Government has rejected the full business case for a new University Hospital Monklands, dealing a bitter blow to patients and staff. Health Secretary Angela Constance told MSPs the estimated £2.1 billion price tag could not be afforded "within our current financial landscape."
NHS Lanarkshire Responds with Disappointment
NHS Lanarkshire chair Katharina Kasper said: "We are very disappointed that we are not able to continue with the current plans for a new Monklands Hospital, but welcome the Scottish Government’s continued commitment to delivering a replacement." She added that the health board would work closely with the government to progress a new hospital "as quickly as possible, in a way that is deliverable, affordable and provides the best value for patients."
Timing of Announcement Criticized
The bombshell announcement was made just 30 minutes before the Scottish Parliament began its two-month summer break. Jackie Baillie, Scottish Labour health spokeswoman, said: "This is not a reset - it's a complete halt. It has taken the SNP just seven weeks to start ditching manifesto promises."
Government Cites Affordability and Value for Money
In her statement, Ms Constance said: "Having carefully considered the Full Business Case submitted by NHS Lanarkshire, I cannot approve it in its current form within our current financial landscape." She noted the proposal would cost an estimated £5 million per bed and exceed the cost of Scotland's largest hospital, the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, and the new HMP Glasgow combined. "Proceeding in this cost envelope would significantly limit our ability to invest in services and infrastructure across the wider NHS," she added.
Redesign Planned for 2027 Decision
Ms Constance said a redesign "will be done at pace and plans are in place to take a decision as early as possible in 2027." NHS Lanarkshire had hoped construction could begin next year with a completion date of 2031, but those hopes are now dashed. Ms Kasper stressed: "The work already undertaken will not be lost. It reflects extensive input from clinical teams, staff, patients, communities and partners, and has helped shape how services can be delivered in the future."
Continued Commitment to New Hospital
Despite the setback, Ms Kasper reaffirmed: "The need for modern, safe and sustainable hospital services for the people of Lanarkshire has not changed. NHS Lanarkshire will continue to address the long-term challenges associated with the existing University Hospital Monklands estate." The health board has pledged to work urgently with the Scottish Government to provide updates on timescales and future services.
