A new 96-bed inpatient ward block at University Hospital Limerick has moved a step closer, with the awarding of a public works contract.
The Health Service Executive has awarded the contract to John Sisk & Son for the delivery of the new Block B ward block.
A four-month pre-construction phase will now begin, with main construction works due to get underway in October and completion targeted for the final quarter of 2029.
The development will be the second 96-bed ward block delivered on the UHL campus in recent years, following the opening of a similar facility in 2025, while two 16-bed rapid-build units have also been added.
A further 16-bed unit is due for completion this year, while a design team has been appointed for a separate 66-bed block.
Across the Mid-West, an additional 114 beds are planned for Ennis, Nenagh and St John’s Hospitals by 2031, bringing the total number of new beds expected in the region to 420.
The HSE says the expansion programme is designed to increase capacity in line with Government commitments and HIQA recommendations on urgent and emergency care services.
Welcoming today’s development, Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said “I know how important this project is for patients, staff and families in Limerick and across the Mid West. The award of this contract is another important step forward to increase much-needed inpatient bed capacity for the region. The 128 beds we have opened since the end of 2024 have already made a very positive contribution to UHL and the people of the Mid West, and the ‘Block B’ ward block will continue those positive improvements.”
Welcoming the contract signing, Minister of State for Older People Kieran O’Donnell TD said “The awarding of the contract for the construction of the second 96-bed inpatient ward block marks a further significant milestone in the provision of additional bed capacity at University Hospital Limerick and will deliver enhanced healthcare services for patients, their families and staff in Limerick and the Mid West region.”
