Dr Neil Hudson, Member of Parliament for Epping Forest, has again urged the Labour Government to accelerate the long-awaited redevelopment of Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow and Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone.
Both hospitals are essential to the communities of Epping Forest and the wider region, yet face mounting pressures from outdated facilities and growing demand.
Despite promises made by the Labour Party prior to the 2024 General Election to timely deliver the New Hospitals Programme, the Labour Government has moved both projects into ‘Wave 2’ of its revised timetable, with construction start dates pushed back to between 2032 and 2034. This is a significant and critical delay from previous commitments.
Dr Hudson has been a consistent advocate for improving healthcare provisions locally and is an outspoken supporter of these hospital rebuild projects. He has met with Ministers and repeatedly pressed the Government to reconsider these delays, highlighting the impact on both patients and staff.
In the Chamber during the Debate, Epping Forest MP Dr Neil Hudson said:
“My constituents in Epping Forest depend on the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow and Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone.
“Despite clear promises made by Labour on these hospitals prior to the election, the Labour Government has now delayed the rebuilding of these two vital hospitals. Particularly galling that Whipps Cross has planning and the car park has already started.
“Does my Honourable Friend agree with me that the Labour government should re-evaluate their priorities and crack on with delivering the rebuilds promised on Princess Alexandra and Whipps Cross?”
Speaking afterwards, Dr Neil Hudson MP said:
“Princess Alexandra Hospital and Whipps Cross Hospital are lifelines to my constituents in Epping Forest and surrounding areas.
“I urge the Labour Government to fulfil their promises and bring forward construction as soon as possible and reconsider their devastating decision to delay these critical rebuilds.
“I will continue to hold the Government to account to deliver these vital projects.”
