Contract Awarded

The contract to build the first phase of new Children's Hospital for Wales has been awarded to Laing Construction Wales and West Limited.

Noah's Ark Appeal's Chairman of Trustees, Lyn Jones said, "This is a very proud moment for us. To see a project we first dreamed about more than twelve years ago become a reality today is a very special feeling. The wonderful support we have had from people and organisations across Wales has enabled us to be here today. It is a fitting reward for the efforts of our trustees, staff and volunteers who have worked so hard on this project".

David Edwards, Chief Executive of the Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust, outlined the advantages of the chosen design and the benefits of the new hospital building for sick children, both as inpatients and outpatients in the new hospital. He explained, "The scheme put forward by Laing Construction Wales and West Limited outperformed other bids against almost every criteria used in the selection process.

"It was considered the most child friendly in its design layouts and use of materials and delivered a non-institutional and non threatening environment for the care of children and young people. It also had a clear identity that would stand out from other buildings on the site. The floor plans introduced curved walls and avoided hard edges as a means of softening the environment.

"Externally the main façade has been broken down with a creative use of materials and colour. Internally the opportunity has been taken to create sympathetic themes at each floor level consistent with the Noah's Ark Art Strategy.

"It was felt that one of the most important areas was the main entrance – the child's first impression – and the design has been focused on putting the child at ease. There will be play areas, water features and a reception point which allows children to view an exotic fish tank at low level while their parents communicate with staff over the counter.

"Overall the Trust is extremely pleased with the outcome and feels that the winning design will make a major contribution to the healthcare of children in Wales".