There is a drive to “maximise local involvement” in the construction of the new hospital, according to the Health Minister – who has revealed that the preparatory work alone could see up to £30 million of work available for island firms “within the first 12 months”.
Deputy Tom Binet said that efforts to formally register interest in the project had included engagement with the local construction industry.
Demolition of the dilapidated, unused and former healthcare buildings at Overdale was completed towards the end of last year, as work progresses towards the construction of a new acute hospital – for which a planning application was approved last month.
A procurement process is underway for a Main Works Delivery Partner (MWDP), expected to be appointed by autumn.
The programme has also been broken down into various projects to provide more opportunities for the local market.
This includes development works to prepare the Overdale site in advance of the MWDP commencing construction.
Deputy Binet explained that there has been ongoing engagement with local advisors and contractors as part of the programme.
“We’ve had meetings with anybody who has been interested locally and there’s been a registration of interest process which has been well-received,” he said, stressing that there had always been a drive to “maximise local involvement” in the project.
“That’s been part of the way we have been approaching this from day one. We want to keep as much investment on-island as we can – that’s a commitment we have made from the beginning.”
Ensuring Jersey firms are involved in the development of the new hospital has always been a key consideration
Chief Minister lyndon farnham
Deputy Binet noted that the preparatory work could see as much as £30 million of activity available “within the first 12 months”.
Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham added: “Ensuring Jersey firms are involved in the development of the new hospital has always been a key consideration and we are confident the project will generate much-needed work for the island’s construction industry.
“I have no doubt the depth of experience held by local builders and suppliers will play an important role in the overall success of the scheme.”
Jersey’s construction sector has lost a number of firms in recent years.
K-Land Construction ceased trading with immediate effect in January, while Kalmac, MAC Energy and Eden Interiors – all part of the MAC Group – ceased trading last year, citing a “downturn” in the housing market.
This followed the collapse of building firms Camerons and JP Mauger in 2023.
Deputy Binet added: “We recognise the pressure there is on the local construction industry and we are very keen to support it.”