The UK Government has announced a significant investment in healthcare with the confirmation of hundreds of millions of pounds in funding for a new Emergency Care Building at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth.

The new development is part of the first wave of the New Hospital Programme, aimed at modernising NHS infrastructure across the country. The facility will feature dedicated spaces for children and frail patients, using modern design techniques to maximise efficiency and improve patient care.

In a letter to local NHS leaders, Health Minister Karin Smyth confirmed the allocation of funds, stating that the project provides the financial certainty needed to proceed confidently. The construction is expected to begin between 2025 and 2026.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: 'Patients have endured years of broken promises, so I’m delighted this Government is getting work underway on a world-class hospital development at Derriford.'

The hospital is part of a broader £15 billion investment plan, spread across five-year waves, averaging £3 billion annually. The initiative includes not only new hospitals but also improvements to GP surgeries, with £102 million allocated to primary care upgrades and over £1 billion earmarked to address a backlog of critical maintenance and repairs.

Charlotte Taylor from the New Hospital Programme commented: 'This marks a significant milestone for Derriford Hospital and the community it serves. We will continue working closely with the Trust to deliver a modern facility that supports both patients and staff.'

This development reflects the Government's commitment to delivering a future-ready NHS through its Plan for Change, aiming to reduce waiting times and enhance the overall quality of care across the country.