Firm chosen to build Jersey's new hospital at Overdale

Construction firm Bouygues UK has been chosen to build Jersey's new hospital at Overdale.

The government says the company - a subsidiary of Bouygues Construction- is its preferred tenderer for 'Main Works Delivery Partner' for the £710 million project.

It has worked on more than 400 health care facilities worldwide and has delivered major hospital projects across the UK and Europe, including University College Hospital in London and North Middlesex University Hospital.

The government believes, given Jersey's location, that this will give the company leverage in its UK and French businesses and supply chains to build the hospital.

A reserve firm has also been chosen to keep the project on track in case final contract terms aren't agreed.

A planning permit has been issued, and local firm Ashbe Construction has been awarded the Development Works contract and will prepare the site for work to start as soon as possible next year.

Read: New hospital at Overdale gets planning approval

Health Minister Deputy Tom Binet says the island is now 'further along than we have ever been' with the long-awaited hospital.

"The selection of Bouygues UK as the Preferred Tenderer follows a year of meticulous work."

"In the next phase, the New Healthcare Facilities team will work closely with Bouygues UK to secure the best possible commercial outcome for islanders as we progress the largest of the New Healthcare Facilities projects.

"All of this progress gives me complete confidence that the conditions are in place for the Acute Hospital to be underway during the term of this Council of Ministers, meeting our Common Strategic Priority commitment."

"The New Healthcare Facilities Programme has already created opportunities for the local market, and I look forward to these events playing a constructive role in continuing to support it."

Meet the Buyer events ate planned for local contractors and suppliers to talk to Bouygues UK.

Philippe Bernard, Chair and CEO at Bouygues UK, expressed delight at being selected for the project.

"We look forward to bringing our international healthcare expertise and commitment to excellence to Jersey.

"Through our support for local employment, working with island suppliers and businesses, and investing in skills and workforce development, we aim to create long-term benefits that will endure well beyond the construction phase."

It emerged this week that the total spent so far  - since 2012 - on the hospital project is £204 million.

Ministers are aiming for a completion date before the end of 2028.