The upgrade for Musgrove Park Hospital is now on a lengthy waiting list, with construction not expected to start for several years
Taunton: So, it looks like the big upgrade at Musgrove Park Hospital is going to take a while. We’re talking five to ten years before any real work starts. The government just announced that it’s part of their ‘Wave 2’ plans for new hospitals.
Basically, hospitals in ‘Wave 1’ will kick off construction between 2025 and 2030, while those in ‘Wave 2’, like Musgrove, will have to wait until 2030 to 2035. It’s a bit of a bummer, right?
This hospital was one of 40 set to be rebuilt or improved under a program started back in 2020. Health Secretary Wes Streeting mentioned that some projects are already moving along nicely and should be done in the next three years.
He also shared that the first wave includes several hospitals that are in urgent need of upgrades. It’s a mixed bag, but at least some places are getting attention sooner.
Musgrove Park Hospital does a lot, offering everything from emergency care to maternity services. They’re even planning an £80 million surgical center with fancy new operating theatres. Sounds great, but we’ll have to be patient.
Streeting acknowledged that many folks will be disappointed with this timeline. He pointed out that previous governments made promises without solid plans, but he insists this new approach is different and actually funded.
He’s committed to making sure these projects happen, saying it’s part of a major investment in the NHS. It’s all about rebuilding trust and making sure the healthcare system gets what it needs.
