Ambitious plans to develop Leighton Hospital can continue as it will be exempt from Labour’s review of the New Hospital Programme.
The government has announced that Mid Cheshire Hospital NHS Trust’s scheme will be allowed to progress.
This is due to the Leighton Hospital being one of seven RAAC (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) hospitals.
RAAC is a lightweight, bubbly form of concrete that was often used in schools, colleges, and hospitals from the mid-1960s to the mid-1980s.
It has a lifespan of 30 years and Leighton Hospital is now 50 years old.
Ian Moston, chief executive of Mid Cheshire Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust, said: “This announcement is great news for our patients, staff, and communities in mid Cheshire and beyond.
“Currently, we are working tirelessly to keep our staff, patients, and visitors safe through our extensive rolling programme of inspection and remedial works to stabilise structures.
“We are delighted with the clarity and renewed commitment that this announcement gives and that we have the approval to continue with our ambitions for a new health and care neighbourhood and to build a new Leighton.
“This is a once in a generation opportunity to transform the way we deliver health and care for our local population, a place of ‘Healthier Futures’ for our people across Mid Cheshire.”
To find out more about the Healthier Futures programme and to be kept up to date with the latest developments, visit the Healthier Futures website.
Disappointing