Livingston hospital site purchased by healthcare firm in seven-figure deal

A Livingston hospital has been purchased by a Scottish healthcare provider in a seven-figure deal to secure its long-term future.

Cosmedicare, founded ten years ago by entrepreneur Gill Baird, has purchased the St Ellen’s Hospital facility on the Kirkton Campus alongside an adjoining extension site.

The undisclosed deal with former landlord Coralinn LLP grants the company permanent ownership of the property.

The purchase follows a financial turnaround for the business. After recording a loss in 2025 due to a drop in bariatric surgery revenue caused by the rise in weight-loss medications, Cosmedicare refocused on higher-margin plastic and reconstructive procedures.

Under Gill’s leadership, the company increased turnover from £4.4m to £6m, returning to a £1.5m profit. The business projects a turnover of £7m for 2027.

Securing outright ownership of St Ellen’s Hospital paves the way for a 10,000 sq ft, two-storey extension at the site, which already holds planning permission from West Lothian Council.

The expansion will increase surgical capacity for more complex procedures, including orthopaedics and longer-stay operations, while supporting future job creation.

The business currently employs over 30 people across its Livingston and Glasgow facilities, delivering cosmetic surgery, gender-affirming care, orthopaedics, and private GP services. Expansion into dentistry is expected in early 2027.

Cosmedicare has also launched an NHS Waiting List Initiative offering preferential self-pay rates, designed to help patients access treatment more quickly as public sector waiting lists remain under pressure.

Managing Director Gill Baird said: “Owning our hospital gives us complete control over our future. It allows us to invest with confidence, expand our facilities and continue building a centre of excellence capable of meeting Scotland’s growing demand for high-quality, consultant-led healthcare.

“This acquisition is about much more than buying a building. It’s about creating a long-term healthcare destination that will continue serving patients for generations while supporting the wider healthcare system.”

Steven McMillan, Investment Manager for Coralinn LLP, added: “Our team at Coralinn is pleased to have played a part in the building’s journey and wish Gill and the team every success as they take St Ellen’s into its next chapter.”