Local health plans could be held up to fit in with Darzi NHS vision, MPs told

11.00.30am GMT Wed 14th Nov 2007

Local MPs Tom Brake and Paul Burstow met with NHS London Boss, Ruth Carnall, last week they learned that the local plans known as Better Healthcare Closer to Home could be held up to fit into a wider review of how South West London fits into Health Minister, Lord Darzi's vision for the NHS.

The MPs called the meeting to press for the case for investment at St Helier hospital. After a decade of 'dither and delay' by NHS bosses the boroughs MPs believe that local people have lost faith in the NHS delivering a new General Hospital.

Ruth Carnall, the Chief Executive of NHS London, told the MPs that the local NHS had to submit an outline business case for its plans for part refurbish, part new build at St Helier by 8th February. But she also said that NHS London wanted to take the opportunity to make South West London the first Darzi model area.

Commenting after the meeting Paul Burstow, MP for Sutton and Cheam, said: "Its time the NHS pressed ahead with building hospital fit for local people. After a decade of dither and delay local people have lost faith in the NHS ever delivering a new hospital.

"The future of the Sutton hospital site is still in limbo. More work is urgently needed to secure its use for health services."

Tom Brake, MP for Carshalton and Wallington added: "There should be no further delay. Lord Darzi's vision for health services in London should not be allowed to put the brake on this long overdue project.

"Its up to the new team of local senior NHS managers at the PCT and St Helier to restore public confidence by delivering on hospital investment."