Plans to develop a multi-million pound operating theatre complex at the Alexandra Hospital have moved a step closer after a planning application for the scheme was submitted.
Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust are moving forward with plans to build the two-storey purpose-built extension to Redditch’s hospital.
The operating theatre complex will house seven new operating theatres to provide improved clinical space, allowing more flexibility and be better suited to current clinical practices.
This latest development at the Alex follows the opening of the new Breast Imaging Unit earlier this year, the commitment from the Trust to return the Garden Suite and the long-awaited installation of Rory the Robot.
Rachel said: “I have long said the Alex has a bright future ahead of it and this multi-million investment in our hospital clearly demonstrates that it isn’t going anywhere.
“We’re seeing continued investment in our hospital from the new Breast Imaging Unit to Rory the Robot which will deliver state-of-the-art robot assisted surgery at the Alex.
“I will always welcome investment whilst at the same time push on with the fight to return a maternity and children’s service to the Alex. I’ve set out clear plans on how I believe we can achieve this and I am determined to deliver on the promises I have made to you.
The seven theatres will ultimately replace the six existing theatres at the Alex which have now reached the end of their natural lifespan. However, this will follow a transitional period where, once the new complex is built, the existing theatre space will be retained for 2 to 3 years to aid the reduction of the current waiting list.
The Trust did consider refurbishing the existing theatres, but there would not have been the additional space needed to bring the theatres up to current standards.
“I look forward to discussing with the Trust what the existing theatre space will be used for once the transitional period comes to an end,” Rachel added.
“Given the clear promises I have made to my constituents, I know what I would like to see this space being used for.”
To view the planning application please visit: https://publicaccess.bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=REV33ASEMSW00
