Skipton MP, Julian Smith met with Foluke Ajayi to receive an update on plans for the redevelopment of Airedale Hospital.
During the meeting, Ms Ajayi outlined progress following the Government’s latest report on reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).
According to the report, Airedale Hospital can continue to operate safely beyond 2030, although a small number of RAAC planks remain inaccessible and present a limited residual risk.
She said the Government has committed funding for mitigation work, alongside £49 million in capital funding aimed at supporting the hospital’s immediate infrastructure needs.
Mr Smith was also updated on a planning application submitted by the Trust in December for a new multi-storey car park and access road.
The project is part of preparatory work linked to the proposed hospital rebuild.
Ms Ajayi said engagement with staff, patients, local residents and a Community Panel has helped shape priorities for the future facility.
She said the aim is to create a modern, patient-centred hospital with clearer navigation, more natural light, improved communal spaces and better transport connections.
“The engagement we’ve carried out with staff, patients and the community has helped inform what people want to see from a modern hospital,”
“That includes improved access, welcoming spaces and stronger links with services in the community.”
The meeting also discussed the National Audit Office’s recent report on the Government’s New Hospital Programme.
The report indicates that a replacement hospital for Airedale is expected to open in 2033, with construction planned to begin between 2027 and 2028. Plans include increasing overnight bed capacity to around 430.
The National Audit Office rated the wider programme “amber”, reflecting the challenges involved in replacing hospitals built with RAAC and broader pressures within the construction sector, while stating the programme remains achievable with effective management.
Speaking after the meeting, Mr Smith said:
“I am grateful to Foluke for a positive and constructive update.
"The work underway at Airedale is significant, and I welcome the continued focus on safety, preparation and community involvement.”
“Securing a new hospital for Airedale remains a top priority for me, and I will continue engaging with ministers and the Trust to ensure that progress continues.”
Global Microsoft outage causes disruption to councils and schools in North Yorkshire
Two Keighley neighbours win £377,224 each in Postcode Lottery draw
Meet the family behind Drift - Skipton's new restaurant
Skipton MP backs Conservative welfare reform plan
Hundreds of donated spectacles handed over in Skipton
Royal Oak pub reopens under new management with plans for major changes
New Cats Protection superstore to open in Skipton this month
North Yorkshire Council cancels planning meetings amid new government rules
Skipton Repair Café volunteers fix 81 items in one day
Christmas toy appeal launches to help families across Skipton
Kex Gill A59 traffic restrictions expected to be lifted in early December
Talks continue over future of Settle dairy site
Work begins at former Gargrave care home earmarked for 16 affordable homes
Council accused of 'illusion of listening' over school transport consultation
North Yorkshire councillors to vote on next chief executive
Skipton keeps its place among Britain's 10 happiest places to live
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
