Last updated at 12:43, Friday, 26 October 2012

Work on Cockermouth’s new £11 million community hospital is on target to be completed by next summer.

MAJOR MILESTONE: Cockermouth’s new £11m community hospital now has a roof, ensuring the building will be watertight for winter

Contractors Robertson reached a milestone this week as the roof was installed on the building.

It ensures that the building will be windproof and watertight before winter.

Martin Westgate, regional business development manager for Robertson, said: “Fitting the roof always marks a major milestone in any project.”

Work at the Isel Road site is expected to be largely completed by next summer, with the new facility open by the autumn.

Gas, electricity and water services are being connected, which will lead to some disruption on nearby roads and footpaths.

A temporary car park has opened for site visitors to reduce the demand for on-street parking.

Cockermouth GP Simon Desert, who has been leading the hospital project, said: “Building work is causing traffic issues, and we do appreciate the patience which neighbours and patients have given while work continues.

“However, when we open for business next year there will be car parking for 130 vehicles at the health centre – more than ever before.”

The new 43,000sq ft, two-floor hospital is being built next to the current cottage hospital.

It will combine GP and community hospital services and have a roof garden and cafe.

A new paediatric clinic will start to run in temporary buildings at the hospital site and a new pharmacy has already opened up there.

Dr Desert said: “The hospital will provide a superior environment for patients, providing privacy and dignity for in-patients with all wards en-suite.”

First published at 11:49, Friday, 26 October 2012
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk