The consultancy service work on the extension of maternity unit at the CWM hospital will start next month.

Ministry of Health’s Asset Management Unit says the consultant of this project has been appointed through tender process and the contract has been signed.

According to the Unit, the initial design of the project was made in 2011 however there was lack of critical bridging of services between the existing and new facilities.

It has been redesigned with consultation with doctors at the hospital which has caused the delay in the project.

Government has allocated $3 million for civil works on this project in this year’s budget.

The construction of the new 224 bed unit is expected to be completed in late 2018 which will cater for the demand for maternity services in Suva.