Scottish Budget Includes Funding for New Belford Hospital

The Scottish Budget now incorporates funding for a new Belford Hospital in Fort William. Residents of Lochaber have advocated for a new medical facility for over two decades, with a demonstration in March drawing hundreds of participants. The idea of replacing the Belford, which is 60 years old, was initially proposed in the 1990s. Construction was slated to commence this year at a location in the Blar Mhor area, close to Caol; however, these plans were suspended following a reduction in Scottish government funding. Finance Secretary Shona Robinson announced on Wednesday that this funding is part of a broader £200 million initiative designed to decrease NHS waiting times and enhance investment in social care. Health Secretary Neil Gray, during his visit in October, stated that “the Belford was not fit for purpose.”