Bolton healthcare contract awarded

Willmott Dixon has been chosen by Bolton College of Medical Sciences (BCMS) to build a new medical and clinical skills training facility located at the Royal Bolton Hospital site in Farnworth.

Procured using the Procure Partnerships framework, BCMS will provide best-in-class training opportunities for healthcare professionals in what is intended as a transformational blueprint for training NHS staff.

The project is a collaboration between the University of Bolton, Bolton College, Bolton NHS Foundation Trust and Bolton Council, designed to give people a direct route into clinical healthcare employment, with a focus on practical, skills-based learning in a live hospital environment.

Professor George E Holmes, President and Vice Chancellor of the University of Bolton, said: “BCMS is arguably one of the most significant projects delivered in the north west in decades.

“Not only will it increase employment prospects in the local area and make healthcare professions more accessible, but it will also help alleviate NHS staffing pressures in Greater Manchester and provide improved levels of care in our community. It’s brilliant to see the build underway.”

Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Councillor Adele Warren, said: “Bolton College of Medical Sciences will be a great asset to our borough, creating jobs and giving residents the opportunity to learn skills and train for a new career. The council is proud to work closely with our partners on this development, one of many key regeneration projects being delivered across the borough.”

The project is due to complete in 2024, when the first intake of BCMS learners is due to start.