Robertson Construction North East has been appointed to take forward the build of the new Berwick Community Hospital, marking an important milestone in a project that has faced recent challenges.
The North East-based construction firm will take responsibility for the site in mid-February, beginning with detailed surveys to shape a refreshed construction programme of work that is expected by the end of February.
The appointment follows the collapse of the previous main contractor, Merit Construction, whose administration in late 2025 had stalled progress.
After the collapse of its original contractor, Merit, the Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust appointed Opus Building Services as interim builder.
Robertson Construction will now bring the Berwick project to completion.
While a definitive opening date is not yet confirmed, the trust remains hopeful that the facility will be ready to serve patients by spring 2027.
The firm’s first task will be to re-establish momentum on site, strengthen relationships with supply chain partners, and refine risk mitigation plans.
"The first stage of work is about re-establishing confidence in the scheme and ensuring it is ready to progress as quickly as it can,” said Neil Kennedy, Regional Managing Director of Robertson Construction North East.
Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust emphasised the importance of this local hospital to the community, especially given earlier delays.
"The last few months have been difficult for many, and we appreciate the concern surrounding the construction,” said Damon Kent, Managing Director of Northumbria Healthcare Facilities Management.
Robertson Construction North East brings extensive NHS sector experience to the project, having recently delivered a community diagnostic centre at the Metrocentre in Gateshead and an urgent treatment centre at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle.
Alongside P+HS Architects, the firm also submitted plans in September for the £30m Sir Bobby Robson Institute at Freeman Hospital.