A Major Milestone for Healthcare in Consett
Health Secretary Wes Streeting visited the site designated for the much-anticipated New Hospital for Consett, marking a significant step forward in replacing the ageing Shotley Bridge Hospital.
The visit is part of the national New Hospital Programme, with construction on the new Consett facility expected to begin in 2026 or 2027.
Long-Awaited Investment in Local Healthcare
Shotley Bridge Hospital has long been criticised for its outdated infrastructure and deteriorating condition. The new hospital promises to transform healthcare delivery in Consett and the surrounding areas with modern facilities and improved accessibility.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting met with local representatives, including Liz Twist, MP for Blaydon and Consett, and Councillor Kevin Earley, Secretary of the Shotley Bridge Hospital Support Group. Together, they discussed the local impact and next steps for the development.
Wes Streeting: “Labour Will Deliver” Wes Streeting made a firm commitment during his visit, stating:
“When I went into the department of health and social care after the general election, I found the Conservatives had left the new hospital programme was years behind schedule and the funding ran out in March.
“This Labour government isn’t going to lead people up the garden path once again. We have secured the funding, produced a realistic timetable, with spades in the ground for a new hospital site in Consett in 2026/7.
“It was great to see the site myself, and hear from Labour councillors how important the investment will be to regenerating Consett. Labour will deliver this new hospital building so patients in Consett get the care they deserve.”
Liz Twist: “Labour is Delivering for Consett” – Liz Twist, who has been a consistent advocate for the hospital project since her election in 2024, echoed the optimism:
“Having the Health Secretary here is a clear indication that Labour is delivering for Consett and the surrounding communities. The new site will have state of the art facilities and much improved transport links. I’m keen to keep working with all the relevant stakeholders to ensure this project is built and delivered within the time frame and to improve healthcare within our communities.”
