NHS Western Isles approves boiler replacement plan for St Brendan’s on Barra

NHS Western Isles has approved a £300,000 commitment towards the replacement of the boiler system at St Brendan’s in Barra, following a detailed feasibility study presented to the Board’s Corporate Management Team.

The existing oil‑fired boilers have reached the end of their serviceable life and have become increasingly unreliable. The new plan ensures a safe, resilient and efficient heating solution for both the hospital and the adjacent care home, which share a common heating system. It is expected that the project will cost in the region of £600,000 with NHS Western Isles and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar each funding 50 per cent of the costs. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s funding of the percentage of the costs has now also been approved by its Asset Investment Team, to be funded from the Property Capital allocation.

Following a full analysis of short and long‑term options, NHS Western Isles has approved the recommendation to install new oil‑fired boilers within a packaged plantroom, positioned on the site of the redundant oil storage tank.

This option was identified by consultants as offering the lowest operational risk, the least disruption to patients and staff, and the most practical programme for continuity of heating. As the plantroom can be constructed off‑site, the transition to the new system can take place with minimal interruption to heating services.

St Brendan’s Hospital has been identified for future replacement, and the approved boiler solution provides a safe, reliable and cost‑effective system for the coming years, while avoiding unnecessary investment in infrastructure that may not be required long term.

The project will now progress to the detailed design and procurement phase, with timelines for installation to be confirmed. The change ensures the continued provision of warm, safe and dependable facilities for the people of Barra while long‑term redevelopment plans continue.