Kettering General Hospital

Opened the debate

MP Philip Hollobone raised concerns about the funding delays and disjointed plans for Kettering General Hospital's redevelopment. He highlighted that while the hospital has received £46 million for an urgent care hub and £350 million in health infrastructure plan 2 funding, these funds are not being integrated properly by Health Department and HM Treasury. This hinders the project’s progress, as building the urgent care hub separately would preclude space for subsequent HIP2 developments post-2025. Hollobone requested permission to draw down on the £46 million funding immediately, preparation of an outline business case for HIP2 investment in 2025, and early advances from HIP2 commitments to integrate both streams. He emphasised that these asks do not seek additional funds but a cohesive approach to deliver urgent care improvements.

Government Response

Minister Edward Argar acknowledged the importance of Kettering General Hospital's redevelopment for its constituents. He highlighted that £46 million has been allocated for an urgent care hub, with plans to integrate it into the wider hospital rebuild under HIP2 funding. However, due to ongoing discussions on meshing these two funding streams and ensuring value-for-money through standardisation, immediate drawdown of the full amount is not possible. The central programme team continues to engage productively with the trust, considering options for a holistic approach that maximises value while adhering to Treasury processes. Argar committed to further collaboration with MPs and the hospital trust towards achieving an ambitious yet efficient redevelopment.