A significant investment of £3.2 million will enhance healthcare facilities in Surrey, specifically at St Peter’s Hospital in Chertsey. This funding will modernize intensive care units for premature infants and improve cardiac care services, benefitting both vulnerable babies and adults in the community.
The funding package includes a substantial contribution of £2.9 million from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) fund, managed by Runnymede Borough Council. The CIL is collected through planning charges and aims to mitigate the impact of local development. An additional £900,000 will come from existing NHS allocations.
Upgrades to Cardiac and Neonatal Care
Councillor Robert King, co-leader of Runnymede Borough Council, highlighted the importance of this investment, stating, “For families, the moments when a loved one needs specialist care are when the NHS matters most. That is why this investment we have championed at St Peter’s Hospital is so vital.”
The cardiac facilities will undergo significant upgrades, particularly the Cardiac Catheter Lab, which will allow for more complex and less invasive heart procedures to be performed more efficiently. In tandem, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, recognized as the only Level 3 facility in Surrey, will receive £296,000 for refurbishment. Level 3 units provide the highest level of care for critically ill infants.
Enhancing Patient Experience and Care Quality
Louise Stead, Chief Executive Officer of Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals, expressed optimism about the improvements, stating, “These enhancements will strengthen our ability to deliver timely, life-saving care in modern, purpose-built environments.”
The upgrades aim to create a more supportive environment for families and clinical teams. New rooms will be designed to enhance comfort and privacy, providing reassurance during emotionally charged periods of care. This initiative is one of the most significant local healthcare investments in recent years, with the improvements expected to be realized within the next two years.
Councillor King emphasized the long-term impact of these changes, remarking, “Together, these improvements will strengthen care for some of the most vulnerable babies and adults, ensuring local people receive world-class treatment when they need it most.”
The investment reflects a commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare in Surrey, particularly for those requiring specialized care in critical moments.
