Construction begins on new Saskatchewan Hospital North Battleford

Construction on the new Saskatchewan Hospital North Battleford officially got underway today.

The provincial government expects the new, larger psychiatric facility will be completed by spring 2018.

"The new facility will ensure people get the help they need, when they need it, and in the best possible environment," Battlefords MLA Herb Cox said in a news release.

The new hospital will have 284 beds in total, which includes a 96-room secure unit for criminal offenders living with mental health issues.

The remaining 188 beds will be an increase of 32 beds compared to the existing hospital.

Celeste Bridgeman, Saskatchewan Hospital North Battleford Family Council Chairperson, said the new facility is greatly needed.

"This is a dream come true and will be such a blessing for the patients who are cared for here," Bridgeman said. "It is going to be a significant improvement in all aspects of patient life."

The original hospital was built in 1914.

Construction is expected to cost the province $222 million. It estimates the result of the P3 partnership will save $90 million. In total, the provincial government will invest a $407 million in the hospital, which includes keeping it in "like-new" condition for 30 years after completed.

The province said the project will create 1,500 construction-related jobs.