Air of caution over new Ludlow Hospital move

Chairman Peter Corfield said it represented the largest ever single investment in health facilities in the south of the county and claimed it would save patients from travelling 1.2 million miles every year.

But he pointed out that although agreements had been reached, contracts had still to be signed – although he was hopeful there would be no further delays.

The builders had been due to move in last September.

But then a change in the wording of a new government Bill put the funding on hold and left the project hanging in the balance.

Ludlow MP Philip Dunne said earlier this week the issue had all been resolved and contracts would be signed in the next few weeks, with work starting soon after that.

The new site on Ludlow's Eco Business Park, off the A49, is due to include a 36-bed hospital as well as two GP surgeries.

Speaking today, Mr Corfield said: "The League of Friends has welcomed with caution the recent statements that funding issues surrounding the new Ludlow Hospital and Health Facility have been resolved.

"It is almost a year since the project received final approval from the various local and national healthcare organisations and, although we are aware that the funding providers and the Department of Health have reached an agreement, no contracts have yet been signed.

"The League looks forward to contractual close and the publishing of an actual project programme, including a firm start date.

"This is a much needed improvement in the provision of care closer to home and a greatly reduced need for patients to travel to the acute hospitals for routine appointments.

"When fully operational, for instance, the increased outpatients clinics in Ludlow will save over 1.2 million patient miles per year.

"Once the contract and programme are finalised there will be many items to be addressed and new equipment to be provided.

"The League anticipates being fully engaged in these activities."