Edinburgh Eye Pavilion set to return to service after closing for urgent repairs

The Eye Pavilion in Edinburgh is preparing for the return of its services after closing for urgent repairs.

The ophthalmology centre at Princess Alexandra Hospital, which had been plagued with issues, was deemed not fit for purpose back in 2014.

In September 2024, investigations found leaks in two copper waste-pipe stacks, which required substantial work to remove and replace.

The urgent works carried out also included the removal of asbestos material.

NHS Lothian has confirmed that the works are nearing completion, and a timeline for services to return to the building has been developed.

Services are scheduled to begin their move back to the building at the start of June, and the health board said it is working to ensure there will be “minimal” patient disruption.

All patients will continue to receive tailored communications by letter, text, or both with specific information about where their appointments or elective procedures are taking place.

Services will continue to operate from their temporary locations until their proposed move date, with all services due to be operational within PAEP by the end of June.

Jim Crombie, NHS Lothian deputy chief executive, said the team has “carefully” planned for the return.

“For many patients, the move back to the familiar surroundings of the PAEP, will be most welcome,” he said.

Mr Crombie added: “We are really grateful to our patients for their understanding while the PAEP has been temporarily closed, recognising the additional stress and inconvenience this may have caused.

“We welcome the feedback we have received from patients and their families, which we have been able to use to help support our plans for the return to the building.

He added: “I would like to reassure patients, as we prepare to move services back, that they do not need to do anything. They will continue to be notified of where any appointments are taking place.”