An Aberdeen hospital which has been operating for nearly three centuries will close its doors for the final time next week.
Woolmanhill was first opened in 1749, a full 200 years before the formation of the modern NHS and at a time when leeches were still considered an effective form of treatment.
On Monday the last services – audiology and ear, nose and throat clinics – will finally move to the more modern Woodend ahead of ambitious work to redevelop the site.
Four A-listed buildings at Woolmanhill will be turned into a 52-bedroom “boutique” hotel along with around 40 homes under the plans submitted jointly by CAF Properties and NHS Grampian.
Work is expected to begin in June.
The original hospital building on the site was begun in 1740, designed by William Christall.
But Aberdeen’s most famous architectural son Archibald Simpson designed the Simpson Pavilion in 1833.
In 1887, new buildings, designed by W. & J. Smith & Kelly were constructed to the north of the site.
By 1999, health chiefs had confirmed their intention to eventually close the facility.
Dominic Fairlie, chairman of Aberdeen Civic Society, said: “It’s certainly going to be a big change for the city given the length of time that services have been there.
“Although I am glad to hear that the building will be predominately retained.”
Rosemount and Midstocket councillor Bill Cormie said he hoped the plans for the site would mark the “start of a new era” for Woolmanhill.
He said: “It’s the end of an era for the hospital which has served the people of Aberdeen and the north-east for more than 200 years.
“But there are exciting plans coming forward that will retain the building and the much-cherished granite from the city.”
An NHS Grampian spokeswoman said: “A nine-month programme of construction work at Woodend Hospital has transformed two former ward areas into a new and fresh clinical environment.
“There will be new audiology booths, a hearing aid workshop and examination rooms.
“There are currently 85,000 patients registered with ENT and audiology services.”
