Watford Mayor fears plans to build a new hospital are under threat from government reviews
It was announced reviews would be carried out into 40 hospitals set to be built by 2030 across the country
The Mayor of Watford has expressed concerns over the reviews announced by the government into 40 hospitals set to be built by 2030, which could delay care provisions.
Plans to build a new Watford General Hospital had been put in motion, with planning permissions, a brand new carpark already built on site, and support from the local NHS Trust and partners.
The works were further due to start in the next few months.
However last month, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, announced these hospitals would be undergoing scrutiny through a review in the new Government's Hospitals Programme.
This could significantly delay works, or cancel them altogether.
Watford's Mayor, Peter Taylor, said: "The facilities themselves are in desperate need of investment."
"We've had lots of reviews already. We've had lots of discussions, lots of consultations, lots of planning, and I think really patients and staff and everybody deserves just for the funding to be delivered."
"Everything's already in place, and the current facilities are literally crumbling."
Healthcare remains a top issue for local residents, particularly in the rapidly growing population in Watford and surrounding towns.
"It's definitely one of the top issues in my inbox, it's the number one issue from a resident perspective" added Mr Taylor.
The Mayor has been actively engaging with newly elected MPs in the area to push for the promised investments.
What does the government say?
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said:
“The previous government’s commitment to build 40 new hospitals by 2030 is undeliverable and unaffordable. The funding allocated by the previous government runs out in March. We must reset the New Hospital Programme to put it on a sustainable footing, following persistent delays and cost overruns.
“No decisions have yet been made on the scale of the New Hospital Programme. We are undertaking the review of the programme to provide a thorough, costed and realistic timeline for delivery and to ensure we can replace the crumbling hospital estate in England.
“This government is determined to be honest with people about what can be delivered.”