STRATFORD Hospital bosses are “delighted” after the green light was given to their £22million development plans.
South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust (SWFT) is looking to build a cancer and an eye ward at the site of the existing hospital on Arden Street.
The proposals were officially submitted to Stratford District Council back in August and the first phase of the application – for the erection of a new community hospital building and associated multi-storey car park – was unanimously approved by a planning committee on Wednesday evening (October 22).
Speaking afterwards, SWFT chief executive Glen Burley said: “We are all absolutely delighted these plans have been approved as we see the new hospital as a vital part of the area moving forward.
“The support has been overwhelming and I would like to say a huge thank you to those who have started fund-raising to help us provide the best possible environment for patients.
“I often hear from those who visit Warwick’s cancer unit how much they appreciate the non-clinical environment we have been able to offer and with the help of fund-raising, we want this for patients at Stratford Hospital too.”
The new hospital will be built separately to the existing one but all current services will be maintained throughout the build period, which SWFT hopes will begin in November and be complete by the end of 2016.
The redevelopment is expected to be carried out in three phases – the first of which involves the creation of both the cancer and eye units.
The new eye ward will be made up of an outpatient suite with examination, treatment and injection rooms while the new cancer ward – modelled on Warwick Hospital’s Aylesford Unit – is set to include 12 treatment chairs to double the trust’s current capacity.
Hospital chiefs also say the new facilities will reduce travel time – making it easier for patients who live within Stratford district.
Jayne Blacklay, Director of Development said: “For a number of years I have wanted to develop services at Stratford Hospital to provide more care closer to home.
“The support for this development has confirmed that this is key to our provision for future healthcare.
“A tremendous amount of work has gone in to the development to support this build and now plans have been approved, I can’t wait to get started with the work.”
Stratford Hospital is looking to raise an extra £1million to help provide additional features that do not come as standard.
And chair of the hospital’s fund-raising appeal, Denys Shortt OBE, added: “I am delighted the plans have been approved for a new hospital and feel passionately that we have the best health care possible.
“I have had the pleasure of meeting many people who share this passion and are already raising funds for this fantastic new hospital.”
Visit www.stratfordhopsital.co.uk for further information.
