Scottish government approves new 拢60m Orkney hospital

Image source, NHS Orkney

Image caption, The Scottish government will provide the majority of funding for the new 拢60m hospital

The full business case for a new 拢60m Orkney hospital has been given the green light by the Scottish government.

The government will provide the majority of funding for the new facility.

NHS Orkney approved its own business case for the hospital and healthcare facilities two-and-a-half years ago.

The local health authority said the hospital is a key part of an ambitious programme to transform care and services for years to come.

Health Secretary Shona Robison said she was delighted to be giving the green light to the project, which she said would provide a significant boost to the local economy during the construction phase, and would transform healthcare provision once complete.

Cathie Cowan, Chief Executive of NHS Orkney, said gaining full approval was a "significant" step forward for the project.