YORKTON — A long-awaited hospital project in Yorkton remains a political flashpoint after the provincial budget set aside $1.8 million for continued planning work, drawing mixed reaction from government and opposition.
The funding, included in the 2026-27 budget, is earmarked for what the province describes as the “pre-design” phase of a new regional hospital.
Yorkton MLA David Chan said the allocation signals forward movement, even as questions persist about timelines.
“What I can tell you is that we are moving through the process,” Chan said. “We’re in discussions with the city and local partners to determine the final scope of services, and once that’s finalized, we move into the design phase.”
Chan described the current stage as a necessary step before detailed plans can be completed and construction can begin.
“This is actually a very exciting announcement because it shows progress,” he said. “There are a number of steps involved in a project like this, and we’re getting closer to the point where design work can begin.”
He acknowledged community frustration but emphasized the need to get the project right.
“People have been waiting a long time, and that feeling is valid,” Chan said. “But this is about due diligence. We want to make sure the hospital meets the needs of today and into the future.”
The Opposition Saskatchewan NDP, however, argues the announcement falls short of what is needed.
Rural and Remote Health critic Jared Clarke said the project appears stalled despite years of discussion.
“Some say it’s in planning, others say it’s in pre-design, whatever that means. The bottom line is Yorkton still has no new hospital and no timeline for construction,” Clarke said.
He pointed to earlier work on the project, noting that conceptual plans were completed more than a decade ago.
“In 2012, there were designs, cost estimates and even a proposed timeline,” Clarke said. “Now, 14 years later, we’re still being told it’s in pre-design. That’s little comfort for residents who need improved care now.”
Clarke added the party would prioritize construction if elected, saying shovels would be in the ground within its first year in government.
The debate comes amid ongoing concerns about the condition of the existing Yorkton Regional Health Centre. Past assessments have described the facility as outdated, citing limited space, aging infrastructure and design constraints that make upgrades difficult.
Chan said those limitations are part of why a new facility is needed, noting some problems cannot be addressed through renovations alone.
“There are structural challenges, things like hallway widths and infrastructure, that simply can’t be fixed without major disruption,” he said. “That’s why building new is the long-term solution.”
While no firm construction timeline has been provided, Chan said the current phase will help determine next steps.
“As we move through this stage, we’ll be able to establish a clearer timeline,” he said. “The important thing is that progress is being made.”
