St Helier Hospital Improvements and New Hospital: Sutton

Opened the debate

Elliot Colburn praised St Helier Hospital's long-standing service to his community, including its pivotal role during World War II. He thanked NHS staff for their dedication, particularly in challenging times. Colburn reiterated the commitment made a year ago to cease advocating once improvements were delivered and emphasised the Government’s pledge of over £500 million investment. The MP highlighted the Building Your Future Hospitals programme's progress, noting that St Helier Hospital is 90% older than the NHS, necessitating urgent maintenance due to outdated infrastructure. He advocated for faster implementation, stressing the readiness of Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust to mobilise as soon as funding is approved. Colburn clarified misconceptions about the hospital closure, asserting that both a new specialist emergency care hospital in Sutton and an improved St Helier Hospital will serve local residents. The MP concluded by urging for quick financial confirmation from the Government.

Government Response

Andrea Leadsom thanked Elliot Colburn for raising the issue, highlighting his consistent advocacy and noting the trust’s progress in reducing backlog maintenance. She confirmed that the Department is working closely with Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust on their plans for a new specialist emergency care hospital as part of the new hospital programme. The Minister announced that over £23 million has been allocated to support site preparation activities, including demolition at St Helier Hospital and improvements to utilities infrastructure in Sutton. Additional funding of £7.3 million was provided for relocating services from Epsom and Ewell cottage hospital, with construction completed in August 2023. Further, £6.1 million was allocated for A&E upgrade works at both hospitals to enhance emergency department capacity. Leadsom also gave an update on the wider new hospital programme, noting that four hospitals are operational and several more are expected to open by the end of the next financial year. She reassured Colburn about continued funding support and promised a meeting with Lord Markham to discuss the project in detail.