Scotland Celebrates 70 Years of Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound with Historic Tribute

Scotland Celebrates 70 Years of Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound with Historic Tribute

Today, a historic milestone in global medical innovation has been celebrated with the.  

On 21 July 1955, Professor Ian Donald, renowned as the father and pioneer of modern obstetric ultrasound visited the Babcock & Wilcox plant in Renfrew. There, he began exploring the use of industrial ultrasound technology to detect abnormalities in human tissue. This pioneering moment laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most revolutionary advancements in 20th-century medical imaging. 

Seventy years later, Scottish ultrasound technology company novosound has led a tribute to this world-first achievement, commemorating the legacy of 70 years in the field. A commemorative plaque has been installed at the Porterfield Road entrance of the Gatehouse Business Centre at Westway, the site of the former Babcock & Wilcox factory, where Altrad Babcock remains a tenant. A civic ceremony has marked the occasion, with local councillors, industry leaders and special guests in attendance.

Commemorative Plaque at Westway Gatehouse, Porterfield Road, Renfrew

Celebrating 70 Years of Innovation in Ultrasound Technology

Dr Dave Hughes, CEO and Founder of novosound said:

“This door is where modern ultrasound was born. It’s a story not just of innovation, but of Scottish ingenuity and global impact. We are proud to continue that legacy through our work in wearable medical technology.” 

Councillor Jim Paterson added:

“This plaque marks the beginning of a global transformation in how we care for human life. What started here in Renfrew 70 years ago has touched millions of families around the world. It’s a proud legacy of Scottish innovation and fitting that we honour it where it all began.“

Dr Dave Hughes (Founder and CEO of Novosound), alongside Councillor Jim Paterson, unveiled the new commemorative plaque

Martin Dorman, VP – Asset Management from Altrad Babcock said:

“We are proud to honour the role our Renfrew site played in a medical breakthrough. What began as industrial ultrasound testing sparked a revolution in prenatal care. Seventy years later, that legacy of innovation continues to inspire progress at the intersection of industry, healthcare, and life-changing technology.“

Gregor King, Director of Canmoor said:

“As today’s custodians of this historic estate, we’re delighted to host the unveiling and honour a legacy rooted in innovation. This plaque marks a milestone for the countless families worldwide whose lives have been touched by ultrasound’s extraordinary reach.“

Among the honoured guests in attendance is Marian McNeil, one of the first babies ever to be scanned in the womb using ultrasound, a living link to this scientific breakthrough and its profound legacy. Also attending the ceremony were Charlie McQueen and Eric Welsh, both of whom share a personal connection to the site and its remarkable legacy.

Charlie McQueen, began working at Babcock & Wilcox 72 years ago, retired in 1996, and later returned as a consultant. Reflecting on his time there, he said: “I met so many wonderful people, from the shop floor to the boardroom. The company was highly professional, and only the best would do.” 

Eric Welsh also attended, representing a special generational link, his father worked at Babcock & Wilcox during the era when Professor Ian Donald first visited. Eric shared that it was a real pleasure to return to the site and meet those now leading the next chapter in ultrasound innovation. “It’s inspiring to come back to the place that helped shape medical history and see it continuing to drive technology forward. I’m proud to have worked for a company that’s had such a meaningful impact on the medical industry and on people’s lives.” 

Representatives of Babcock & Wilcox / Altrad with Dr Dave Hughes, Founder & CEO of Novosound, at the site of the commemorative plaque unveiling.