Skipton’s Conservative MP Sir Julian Smith says he believes the planned re-build of Airedale Hospital will go ahead despite mixed signals from the new government.
Speaking at a meeting of Skipton and Ripon councillors yesterday, Mr Smith said he was “quietly confident” that a new hospital will be built on the site in Steeton but said pressure on the government must continue to ensure it happens.
The majority of the hospital’s walls, floors and roofs were built with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), which could collapse after a 30-year lifespan.
It’s currently costing millions of pounds a year in repairs and temporary fixes to keep the hospital safe for patients.
In May, there was relief after the former Conservative government announced that a new hospital would be built on the current hospital site when it was added to the New Hospitals Programme.
However, the incoming Labour government announced a review of NHS building projects in order to to save £22bn from the public’s finances.
Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the hospital, has said plans for the rebuild are continuing whilst the review takes place.
Cllr Andy Brown (Green Party, Aire Valley), said councillors were “very concerned” about the current situation.
He asked if the MP could join with local members to send a joint message to the government regarding the importance of the rebuild.
In response, the newly knighted MP said he has been speaking to Keighley MP Robbie Moore as well as other Yorkshire MPs to put pressure on ministers.
Mr Smith said:
“I’m quietly confident it will go ahead due to levels of RAAC and the implications on health and safety.
It’s an extremely strong case, but we need to continue the pressure.
“It’s really important the hospital maintains confidence that it’s highly likely it will go ahead, but we need to nail that review and get it cleared.”
Local care provider celebrates double win at Bradford Care Awards
Veterans selling poppies on Northern trains say support from passengers has been 'heartwarming'
Skipton MP raises concerns over proposed visitor levy and impact on rural tourism
£1million of Keighley Cougars stadium funding redirected to Cavendish Street improvements
Skipton's popular Santa Cruises return for 24th year
Winners revealed for Deliciously Yorkshire Taste Awards
Overnight A59 closures planned as Kex Gill road works reach final stages
Keighley man creates John Lewis-style Christmas advert for charity
Reality TV star Joey Essex to appear at Skipton nightclub
Sandylands Sports Centre to create 44 additional parking spaces
North Yorkshire councillors warned jokes and banter can cause offence under new rules
Nominations open for 2026 Small Business Awards across Ilkley and Keighley
Call for Yorkshire Water to return to public ownership after 335 pollution incidents
Skipton husband-and-wife nursing team launch new therapy services
Details announced for Skipton's Remembrance Sunday parade
Who will take over Alpamare? Questions remain after Flamingo Land departure
Toby Carvery in Keighley to close for refurbishment ahead of Christmas
Skipton charity launches Christmas gift appeal for children in need
Road closures announced for Keighley Christmas lights switch-on
Skipton's Sackville Street features in Tesco Christmas advert
