The £64 million project will see the development of a purpose built facility to replace the existing Balfour Hospital in Kirkwall, two GP practices and the Public Dental Service.

NHS Orkney chief executive, Cathie Cowan, and members of the NHS Orkney Board, formally held the topping out ceremony alongside representatives from Robertson Group.

Cathie Cowan said: “This is a proud moment for NHS Orkney and marks a vital step towards ensuring we can continue to provide high quality care in Orkney for generations to come.

“We are absolutely delighted that this stage of the project has been reached, with our fantastic new facility a step closer to reality. NHS Orkney staff have worked tirelessly to make this happen, and local residents have been incredibly patient and supportive. Once again, my thanks go to the Scottish Government and Scottish Futures Trust for their support in this project.

“This will be a truly first class facility and the benefits it brings shouldn’t be underestimated. On a personal level it is great to see our hospital and healthcare facility take shape. I am in no doubt that this facility will enable us to provide even better care and services, as well as help us attract clinical professionals from across the country and further afield. When I joined NHS Orkney we had a vision to bring where appropriate and safe, more services back to Orkney. I am delighted this vision is now a reality as a result of this significant investment in healthcare here in Orkney.”

Bill Robertson, founder and executive chairman, Robertson Group, added: “Tremendous progress has been made on the new hospital and healthcare facility since work started earlier this year. The topping out ceremony represents a major milestone and brings us one step closer to completing the facility in 2019.

“Many of our businesses have been involved in the project, from Capital Projects to Construction and Facilities Management – and that expertise has been crucial in building a strong partnership with NHS Orkney.

“We have also forged great relationships with the local community, putting them at the heart of the project and providing apprentice and graduate opportunities, not to mention creating opportunities for local SMEs.”

Keppie Design has been appointed as architects, while AECOM and TUV SUD make up the rest of the successful team.

Global professional services consultancy WSP | Parsons Brinckerhoff secured the role of Independent Tester on the project last year.

The scheme is due to be completed in spring 2019.