HC Deb 18 March 1957 vol 567 cc18-9
29. Miss Burton

asked the Minister of Health if he will make a detailed statement concerning the progress of the phase three rebuilding programme at Stoney Stanton Road Hospital, Coventry.

The Minister of Health (Mr. Dennis Vosper)

As this project comprises seven separate items, I will, with permission, circulate a detailed statement in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Miss Burton

Is the Minister aware that this matter has been dragging on for a long time in Coventry and that there has been great dissatisfaction among doctors and patients because the Midland Regional Board has seemed quite incapable of spending the money which it was given? Does the right hon. Gentleman feel that the project is making the progress that it should?

Mr. Vosper

When the hon. Lady sees the statement, she will see that work is still to start on only two of the seven items, and one of those cannot start until work in another part is completed. I do not think there has been any unreasonable delay in the last few months.

Following is the statement:

Phase III Item Description Progress made
1 New kitchen dining and clinical services block. Building work25 per cent. complete to date. The rate of progress should now increase considerably.
2 Reinstatement of war damaged wards. Work finished. Wards in use.
3 Adaptation of existing building to provide additional wards. Tenders for work approved 5th March, 1957.
4 Adaptations to Out-patient Department. This work cannot be undertaken until Items 1 and3 are completed.
5 New dental department. Consideration of siting deferred until completion of Items 1 and 3.
6 Adaptation of disused boiler house to provide engineers workshop. Work completed.
7 Nurse Training School and accommodation for medical records. Siting under discussion with the Regional Hospital Board.