Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has appointed MTX Contracts to deliver a major Welsh Government-funded development to transform the historic Royal Alexandra hospital in Rhyl.

The new purpose-built facility will include a minor injuries unit capable of treating more than 20,000 patients a year, a 14-bed ready-to-go-home reablement unit, and expanded radiology and dental services. It is designed to improve access to urgent and community healthcare services while easing pressure on nearby hospitals, bringing together NHS and social care teams to support patients recovering from medical or surgical treatment.

Additional facilities will include a same-day care centre, imaging and ultrasound departments, four dental suites, a patient and visitor hub, and dedicated staff areas.

The new facility is designed to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating and is being procured in two-stages. MTX has led the scheme through a two-stage procurement process under a Pre-Construction Service Agreement (PCSA), working closely with NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership (NWSSP) to develop a fully compliant design to RIBA Stage 4. MTX has also worked closely with the health board through several carefully planned end-user sessions designed to engage the various departments within the new building.

Subject to final agreement, the main design and build contract for the £33m three-storey 2,500m² facility will see MTX employ advanced elements of Modern Methods of Construction to deliver the project faster, greener, safer and more cost effectively than traditional construction methods.

Precisely engineered steel structural units will be used to create the fabric of the building, factory-manufactured offsite while groundworks are underway to streamline the overall construction process.

Once the foundations and site preparations are complete, the prefabricated modules will be transported to site, craned into position and made watertight, to allow pouring of concrete floors, internal fit-out and installation of mechanical and electrical services to progress rapidly.

Work is due to start on site in the next few weeks and is scheduled to be completed in 2027. The project represents the first phase of a £60m investment in the Royal Alexandra Hospital. The business case for phase two to redevelop and improve the existing hospital will be submitted separately by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.

First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “This long-term investment in health services in Rhyl will cut the amount of time people wait in emergency department, increase the number of inpatients and result in people being able to return home faster after treatment in hospital.

“This investment is part of the Welsh Government’s action to transform healthcare in North Wales, modernising facilities and working smarter so people can be treated closer to home.” MTX Contracts Managing Director David Hartley commented: “Being chosen to partner with the health board in the creation of this important healthcare project reflects our strong track record in providing high-quality healthcare facilities across the UK. By employing hybrid methods of construction and our own unique skillset, we’re looking forward to delivering this vital new facility quickly, sustainably and cost-effectively.”