Doubt over opening of new WA hospital

The new Perth Children's Hospital may not open this year, with construction woes continuing to plague the $1.2 billion facility and the health minister refusing to give a guarantee when questioned in parliament.

Health Minister John Day told parliament on Tuesday he was "hopeful some activities" would begin before the end of the year, but could not promise the already-delayed hospital would open this year.

The hospital was supposed to open last year but has been pushed back due to problems including asbestos in roof panels and now the discovery of high levels of lead in the water.

"It will be open when it is appropriate and safe to do so," Mr Day told parliament.