The project to build the two major facilities at Foresterhill Health Campus was the largest project ever procured through the Health Facilities Scotland Framework, with an estimated cost of £163.7 million.

However, tendering documents have now put the costs of the project, which GRAHAM Construction Ltd started late last year, at more than £200 million, the BBC reports.

A spokesperson for NHS Grampian said: “The enabling works for the Baird and Anchor project were completed in July. These works, which started in December last year, included the clearance of the site in preparation for the main construction works.

“The analysis of the tenders for the main construction works is under way. The tendered costs that have been returned are higher than estimated at the outline business case stage, reflecting the challenges within the construction sector and the wider uncertainty regarding Brexit and the economic position.

“We have commissioned an independent review of the project costs, and are also using the opportunity to review the design of the facilities in light of the learning from the projects in Glasgow and Lothian.

“NHS Grampian is fully committed to the project and continues to have the full support of the Scottish Government.”