Leo Docherty MP joins with local neighbouring MPs Michael Gove and James Sunderland to support Frimley NHS Foundation Trust's bid to the New Hospital Programme
Much of Frimley Park Hospital was built back in the 1970's using reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete beams. Unfortunately, in recent years this material has shown extensive signs of continued deterioration. The cost of the reinforcements work, which would only ever be temporary, has been estimated to be potentially far higher in the long-term than the cost of building an entirely new hospital.
Therefore, the Trust's preferred way forward is to build a new hospital on a site nearby, this would be the most cost-efficient and clinically sound option. Leo has joined up with Michael and James to write to the Health Secretary today to voice their total support for the Trust's bid to the New Hospital Programme.
The Government's New Hospital Programme was set-up in 2019 to deliver a long-term programme of investment in health infrastructure, to build new hospitals and modernise the primary care estate of the NHS.
Commenting, Leo said:
"Frimley Park is an outstanding local hospital, with dedicated staff providing amazing care to the local area.
"To carry on providing this service, Frimley NHS will need £1.26 billion to build a new Frimley Park Hospital.
"I have jointly written this letter with neighbouring MPs Michael Gove and James Sunderland, as we wholeheartedly back and support the Trust in their bid to the New Hospital Programme."
Leo pictured at Frimley Park Hospital with Neil Dardis, Chief Executive of Frimley NHS Foundation Trust