5 Jun 2014

Hospital has $1.7m leak bill

8:03 am on 5 June 2014

The cost of urgent repairs needed to stop rainwater leaking into Dunedin Hospital's operating theatres has grown to more than $1.7 million.

In heavy rain the windows of Dunedin Hospital's main clinical services building leak water, some around operating theatres and onto sterilising equipment, and requiring buckets in the hallways.

An internal report for the Southern DHB board says the leaks have increased to the point where they pose an unacceptable risk of slippery corridor floors and delays to surgery.

The report says the building is nearing the end of its economic life, so the windows should be sealed on the outside, in repairs which should last seven to 10 years.

It is asking the Southern District Health Board to approve spending of up to $1.75 million for the work. The board will discuss the bill at its meeting on Thursday.

Dunedin Hospital entrance.

Photo: RNZ