Welsh Government | Investment in NHS buildings boosts Welsh economy by £1.1 billion

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Investment in NHS buildings boosts Welsh economy by £1.1 billion

Investments in hospital buildings over the last six years have boosted the Welsh economy by hundreds of millions of pounds.

Thursday 26 April 2012

Since 2006, the Welsh Government has ploughed £363 million into projects now completed, £227 million in sites currently being developed and committed a further £552 million into projects in planning.

Of the 12,318 workforce employed on those sites, nearly 80% (9,811) were Welsh residents.

At the 2012 Healthcare Estates Welsh Conference and Exhibition, Health Minister Lesley Griffiths spoke to an audience of estates, construction and property professionals, many of whom have been employed as part of the investments.

Applauding the delivery of the capital projects, virtually all of which were completed on time, within budget and to a high standard of build, the Minister said:

“In Wales we provide healthcare to 3 million people. Patients come into contact with NHS Wales more than 20 million times each year, with 80% of contacts taking place outside of hospital, such as in a GP practice or through a community health service.

“In addition, more than 80,000 people are directly employed by NHS Wales, making the health service Wales' largest employer.

“This is why it is important the right buildings and equipment are fit for purpose and accessible to health workers and patients alike.

“Even in these financially challenging times we as a Government are serious about investing in new buildings, technologies and services to help support the NHS in Wales to deliver essential services to patients.”