Frimley Park rebuild a priority, PM tells MPs
The Prime Minister has said rebuilding Frimley Park Hospital is a priority and he wants to see “spades in the ground” as soon as possible.
Bracknell MP Peter Swallow used his first question at PMQs to press for NHS England to confirm the proposed new site quickly. Around 65% of the 50‑year‑old Frimley Park was built with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) — some 8,500 planks — including in operating theatres, the intensive care unit, wards and corridors.
The Government has now committed the necessary funding to rebuild the hospital completely and has placed it in the highest priority group because of the widespread presence of the dangerous material. That is a change from the previous Conservative administration, which listed the site for replacement but did not commit funds. The preferred site has yet to be officially confirmed by the NHS.
Swallow also asked for investment in public transport, roads and parking so the new hospital is accessible for local residents.
Responding, Sir Keir Starmer said: “Delivering the new Frimley Park is a priority. I want to see spades in the ground as soon as possible”
Speaking after his question, Peter Swallow said: “Residents have had enough of dithering on this issue.
“Building a hospital is always going to be a big job, and they want us to get on with it. The Government has committed the investment we need.
“Announcing the site is the right next step.
“The Prime Minister made clear in answer that Frimley is a priority and we need to be getting on with the job.”
Many people from Bracknell and Wokingham use Frimley Park as an alternative to the Royal Berks. Wokingham’s MP Clive Jones said he would hold the Prime Minister to his word, saying: “Frimley Park Hospital is relied on by many of my constituents, which is why I welcome the Prime Minister’s commitment to making sure the new building is a priority.
“The previous Conservative Government failed to do so – failing patients and the hospital’s hardworking staff who work around the clock in an unsafe environment.
“Rest assured, I will hold Keir Starmer to his word that construction will begin as soon as possible.”
Ted O'Neill, Local Democracy Reporter
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