A NEW hospital has taken another positive step forward.
Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has launched a ‘microsite’ to keep patients updated on the work taking place at Leighton Hospital.
It comes as Mid Cheshire MP Andrew Cooper met with the Secretary of State for Health, Wes Streeting, to urged him to help speed the project up.
“Both myself and Connor Naismith, the neighbouring MP for Crewe and Nantwich, were keen to make the case for the Leighton Hospital rebuild project to be speeded up ahead of the review into the hospitals programme,” said Mr Cooper.
“This is an incredibly important project.
“The RAAC concrete scandal has gone on for too long, causing uncertainty for staff and patients.
“I am determined to keep pushing for the rebuild project to ensure the best outcome for patients and staff from Mid Cheshire.”
Leighton Hospital was built in the 1970s using reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete panels (RAAC planks) in the roof, which means it could be at risk of collapse.
In March this year, MCHFT reached a significant milestone in its plans for the development of a new hospital when it purchased land directly next to the existing hospital site.
However, over the summer, Chancellor Rachel Reeves said a full review of the hospital building programme was needed with a ‘realistic and costed timetable for delivery’.
READ MORE: Hospital in limbo over rebuild plans after government review announcement
The Trust recently submitted a Strategic Outline Case (SOC), supported by Cheshire and Merseyside integrated Care Board, to the national New Hospital Programme team.
This is the initial business case for the development of the new Leighton Hospital.
An outline planning application will be submitted to Cheshire East Council in December, with a decision expected in spring 2025.
In the meantime, the Trust has launched a microsite - https://www.healthierfutures.mcht.nhs.uk - which will keep people up to date on the project.
Chris Knights, programme director for MCHFT’s Healthier Futures Programme, said: “The microsite reflects our wider commitment to involving colleagues, partners, and stakeholders in the planning for our new hospital.
“We have listened to our communities and understand their excitement around our plans and have heard the ask to be kept updated.
“The site will ensure we keep everyone informed and engaged with the new hospital programme, as well as providing details about upcoming events where people can hear more and share their thoughts and experiences.”
The Trust is also planning a series of public engagement events where residents will be able to view the plans before they are submitted.
Details of these events will be announced soon.
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