Julian Sturdy, the Member of Parliament for York Outer, has welcomed the news that construction has begun on York’s new mental health hospital.
The Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Trust has announced that building is now beginning at the site off Haxby Road, which has already been excavated and prepared. The new hospital will contain 72 beds in 4 wards, and will provide a permanent modern replacement for the closed Bootham Park Hospital. Construction is expected to be completed during 2020.
On hearing the news, Julian Sturdy said: “It is hugely encouraging that spades are now in the ground, providing solid evidence that this vital facility is well on the way to completion.
York residents need the security of knowing that if they or their families experience mental health issues, they can be treated in a dedicated modern facility close to home. Today’s news means the promised full replacement of Bootham Park will soon be a reality.
I also welcome the fact that the construction firm are taking steps to ensure this significant building contract benefits local people, using local sub-contractors and suppliers, and providing work experience opportunities for schools and colleges.
I will continue to engage with the NHS Trust and local residents on this, and to do everything I can to ensure that our city’s health services are maintained and enhanced”.