HC Deb 13 May 1976 vol 911 cc240-1W
Mr. Ward

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether design work has commenced on the proposed second district hospital to serve the Peterborough area; and when he expects a decision will be made for it to be included in a building programme.

Dr. Owen

The regional Health authority has been given an indication of the capital resources that will be available to it for the years to 1978–79. So far it has selected priorities for starts only in the current financial year, and its programme includes a start on a 120-bedded unit on the St. John's Hospital site in Peterborough where work is expected to start in August 1976.

The priority for further development of hospital services in Peterborough will be considered at a later stage. The area and regional health authorities are actively considering the needs of the Peterborough Health District with a view to establishing what further facilities are required. No design work is yet in hand, but a prospective site has been selected for a second district general hospital.