Building firm behind Harrogate's NHS Nightingale hospital confirms estimated timescale for transformation of Harrogate Convention Centre

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BAM Construction said they expect to have the hospital open and available for use by or at this coming weekend, April 11-12. The centre will have a 500-bed capacity, and has already been a hive of activity over the last week, with the arrival of huge oxygen tanks, and scores of construction workers, security teams and army personnel.

Pre-Construction Director for BAM Construction in the North East, Paul Cleminson, said: “We have mobilised immediately with a team which is working 24 hours in shifts around the clock, following government guidance about safe working and delivering these emergency facilities to assist the effort to support our NHS. We’re very proud to be involved.

“I’m delighted to say we have first rate partners, and that our extensive and recent experience of healthcare projects in the north of England will serve us well, having worked several times with Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust over the years.

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“Over our distinguished history of service to the UK, BAM has probably built more healthcare schemes than anybody: in excess of 400. We even built emergency hospitals during both world wars. So we feel a sense of poignancy to be doing this now."

BAM and its team are converting eight halls to create suitable partitions, flooring, and the specialist mechanical and electrical zones and installations needed. The team is working 24/7 in shift patterns and working closely with medical staff and the Army.

Following the completion of the works, BAM’s facilities management business will help to maintain the hospital to provide support and continuity.

The firm confirmed that all construction on the site will have taken no longer than 14 days in total.