Grey Bruce Health Services (GBHS) is moving forward with the expansion of the Emergency and Laboratory departments at the Southampton Hospital. In a March 15 press release, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care granted GBHS approval to award the construction contract to Maystar General Contractors Inc.

"This is very positive news and a crucial step in the right direction," said Lance Thurston, GBHS President and CEO. "Thanks to this Ministry approval and the hard work of the Southampton renovation team, who have proactively pushed the project through the pre-construction phase, we are close to having the shovel in the ground.

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The new Emergency and Laboratory departments will be built to meet the latest Healthcare CSA Standards and Building Codes. Some of the renovation highlights include: doubling the-size of the Lab; tripling the size of the Emergency Department; improving waiting spaces; modernizing and equipping these areas to better manage the hospital's patient care volumes, and improving off street parking facilities.

The total project cost is approximately $10 million, with the Provincial Government contributing over $8 million; the remainder being paid for by GBHS and through local fundraising.

"A special thank you is extended to all of those who have generously contributed to this project," said Tony Sheard, Chair of Southampton Campaign. "Each and every donor is helping to transform our hospital and allowing us to provide exceptional care close to home.

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We anticipate that construction will begin within the next couple of months and it is expected to be completed by fall 2018.

The Southampton Hospital and all services will remain open during all phases of the construction.