Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer
Construction is officially underway on the BC Children’s Hospital’s new Centre for Health Complexity, a purpose-built facility designed to support children and youth across British Columbia and the Yukon with complex medical needs. The project, located on the former site of the Sunny Hill Health Centre in Vancouver, is being led by Ledcor, the contractor selected through a two-stage procurement process completed in July 2024.
Demolition of the previous structure is now complete, with full-scale construction scheduled to begin in the next few weeks. Substantial completion is expected by December 2027, with the centre set to open in early 2028.
“This facility represents more than just new infrastructure—it’s a vital investment in specialized pediatric care,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Infrastructure. “Ledcor’s role in delivering this project ensures we’re building a centre that supports children and families with the highest standards of care and accessibility.”
The three-storey, first-of-its-kind facility will feature:
- 16 family suites for short-term stays to support on-site treatment and care coordination
- In-person and virtual services for patients throughout B.C. and the Yukon
- Training spaces for families, caregivers, and health professionals
- Wellness, counselling, and peer support services
- An Indigenous healing garden, green space, and accessible outdoor paths
- A 74-space standalone child care centre, operated by a licensed provider and open to the local community
The Centre for Health Complexity will serve as a central hub for coordinating care for children who require support from multiple specialists, equipment, and services—offering a streamlined, family-centered care model.
Planning included extensive consultation with patient and caregiver advisors, Indigenous health partners, and clinical staff at BC Children’s and BC Women’s Hospitals.
“This is a blueprint for how care for children with medical complexity should be delivered,” said Sarah Bell, CEO of BC Children’s Hospital. “Ledcor’s experience will help bring this vision to life, setting a new national and international standard.”
Since 2017, the Government of B.C. has initiated or completed construction on more than 30 hospitals and health facilities across the province, reinforcing its commitment to modernizing health care infrastructure.
