Construction firm Kier has scooped a £20.8m contract by Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust for the construction of a new purpose-built inpatient facility at Dorothy Pattison Hospital in Walsall.

The project was procured through the P22 framework.

The new unit will create a 15 bedded functional ward and a ten bedded dementia ward, both for older adults. It will replace existing facilities, which are currently based at Bloxwich Hospital. The modern facilities will bring a number of benefits for patients and staff, including more flexible space for therapeutic care.

Working collaboratively to leave a positive lasting legacy, Kier will support the local community through a programme of social value and health and wellbeing initiatives.

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Sustainability will be at the heart of Kier's approach to construction, including the use of low carbon alternatives for power such as air source heat pumps rather than gas boilers, and solar panels on the roof. The project will also be BREEAM Excellent when complete.

David Yorke, regional director for Kier Construction, Eastern & Midlands, said: "Kier has a long history of delivering vital and sustainable infrastructure across the Midlands, including schools, healthcare and leisure facilities and we are proud to be continuing this with the appointment by Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust to deliver its new inpatient facility.

"Supporting and enhancing the local community is at the heart of our approach and building this important new unit at Dorothy Pattison Hospital will give us the opportunity to further strengthen our relationships with our local supply chain and to deliver wider benefits through social value and sustainability initiatives."

Enabling work has already started on site, with the main construction works due to start in autumn this year. The new service is due to open in spring 2024.