The Acorn consortium, comprising John Laing, Laing O'Rourke and Interserve, has achieved Financial Close in the programme to build a new Alder Hey children's hospital in Liverpool.

Acorn was announced as preferred bidder for the project in June 2012 following approval by the Department of Health and HM Treasury.

The new £167m hospital designed by BDP, which is being built on behalf of Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, will have a floor area of 51,000 sqm, and will contain 270 beds and 16 state of the art operating theatres. Furthermore, 75% of bedrooms will be single occupancy with ensuite bathrooms, improving privacy and dignity for patients and their families. The official opening of the new hospital is planned for Autumn 2015.

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Designed in consultation with patients and their families, the Prince's Foundation and National Arts for Health, the hospital will become the UK's first children’s hospital in a park that will give patients, their families and the Trust's staff the most beneficial environment possible. The unique, iconic will integrate the hospital with Springfield Park, ensuring that the majority of bedrooms have natural views and easy access to the park. Wards have access to play decks so that children who cannot leave the ward can benefit from outdoor space.

John Laing and Laing O’Rourke will each hold 40% of the total investment equity in the project with Interserve holding 20%. Laing O’Rourke Construction will design and build the new hospital and Interserve will maintain the hospital infrastructure.

A proportion of the scheme is funded by the Trust’s own financial resources alongside charitable donations. The remainder of the scheme is being funded through Private Finance Initiative (PFI).

(CD)