Council welcomes hospital announcement

The business case for new health care facilities at the St Luke’s Hospital site in Market Harborough was approved by the NHS Property Services Board on Wednesday 21 January 2015.

The planned development for St Luke’s represents one of the largest, single investments in planned health care in Leicestershire in recent times.

NHS Property Services says the investment will provide first class, modern health care facilities for local people. 

St Luke’s Hospital currently houses NHS services such as stroke rehabilitation, palliative care and endoscopy. Other local health services including minor injuries, radiography and ultrasound, outpatient facilities for rehabilitation, speech and language, and some specialist services are provided from the District Hospital on Coventry Road. These services will transfer to the new development at St Luke’s meaning comprehensive care on one site. The new development will also house an urgent care centre and GP practice facilities.

Cllr Blake Pain leader of Harborough District Council said: “I am pleased the business case has been approved. It is a positive step forward and I hope it goes some way to allaying concerns about health provision in light of proposed new housing to the north west of Market Harborough. We’re all aware of the history regarding a new hospital for the town, and it’s imperative this project is delivered by NHS Property Services, as promised, for the benefit of local residents.” 

Martin Royal, regional director for NHS property services, said : “ We are grateful for the support from Harborough District Council on this project and for the patience of local people who have been waiting a long time for the plans to reach fruition. We look forward to continuing our close working relationships so that we can progress and conclude this major investment in local health services.” 

A contract will now be issued to Morgan Sindall of Birmingham who will complete the build. Contracts will need to be agreed and signed and it is anticipated that work will start soon after that in spring this year. 

The new development is expected to open in the summer of 2016.