MSP hails Scottish Government budget funding for new Belford

The development follows years of campaigning from Kate Forbes MSP, who was instrumental behind the Health Secretary’s recent visit to Fort William, as well as a 700-strong march through the town.

A new hospital was first promised in the late 90s – when a Labour and Lib Dem coalition were running the then Scottish Executive.

Setting out the Budget to Parliament today (Wednesday December 4), Finance Secretary Shona Robison said the government had listened and would now act on the priorities of people, businesses and organisations across the country.

Included was a record £2 billion increase in frontline NHS spending taking overall health and social care investment to £21 billion to reduce NHS waiting lists, making it easier for people to see their GP, and progress the Belford Hospital, Monklands Hospital and Edinburgh Eye Pavilion projects.

Now the final stages of design work can proceed with NHS Highland making the project shovel-ready as soon as possible.

Kate Forbes MSP said: “The Budget announcement is the culmination of years of campaigning from communities and key stakeholders, and it is tremendous news for the region.

“The people of Lochaber have waited 25 years for a new hospital, since it was first promised in the 90s. Over the last couple of years, progress has finally accelerated with extensive support for the new plans – and I am delighted that Scottish Government funding will now drive it forward. 

“There is no shortage of support for the project locally, and it is now down to NHS Highland to proceed immediately with further planning and design work.