Mowlem scoops health PFI

John Mowlem has picked up its first major PFI healthcare contract following its selection as the preferred private sector partner for a œ65 million redevelopment project for the South Tees Acute Hospitals NHS Trust. Mowlem saw off a rival bid by the only other shortlisted consortium led by Sir Robert McAlpine.

The project involves the probable closure of Middlesbrough General Infirmary and the North Riding Infirmary. The Trust's services will be concentrated at its South Cleveland Hospital site, south of the River Tees.

The new facilities will be integrated into the existing South Cleveland Hospital, which will be refurbished. Other plans being considered are the provision of a private patient wing, staff facilities, a shopping mall and atrium and recreational facilities.

Some 58ha of land may be available for redevelopment at the already redundant Poole Hospital site and a further 12ha at the South Cleveland site. The Trust expects to work closely with Mowlem over the next few months preparing the business case for submission to the Department of Health in the autumn.