Demolition is almost finished and renovations are soon to begin for the oncology department at the Penticton Regional Hospital.

The city recently issued building permits for $15 million worth of renovations of the 9,000-square-foot section on the third floor of the hospital.

Interior Health confirmed via email that the permits are for the oncology department.

鈥淭he project is nearing completion of the demolition work and the rough-in work has commenced,鈥� said Ashley Stewart, the communications lead for IH鈥檚 capital projects team.

Construction is currently expected to wrap up in May 2025, with service for residents of the South Okanagan starting in July.

An expanded oncology department has been in demand for years, with many patients and residents currently having to travel to 琉璃神社 for treatment.

The provincial government announced the expansion of the department in 2022, along with funding for the $22 million project.

In addition to funding from the Okanagan-Similakmeen Hospital District, the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation has been raising funds for the expansion.

So far, the SOS Medical Foundation is more than halfway towards its goal of $10 million.

鈥淲e have had incredible support from the community. There鈥檚 still a lot of work to be done, but we are very confident with the support we鈥檝e received that we will hit our target,鈥� said Ian Lindsay, the SOS Medical Foundation鈥檚 CEO.

鈥淲e all know someone who sadly has been through that clinic and anyone who does go through there knows that we need this new space.鈥�

The expansion of the department will double its capacity when it is completed.

The expanded oncology clinic will have 11 treatment bays, four ambulatory care treatment bays, four exam/consult rooms, as well as more space for equipment, supplies, medications, and staff workspace, Interior Health said.