Basingstoke residents are frustrated as the new hospital’s opening is pushed back to 2037-2039, despite earlier promises for a 2030 start.
Basingstoke: Residents are really upset about the delay in building their new hospital. The health secretary recently announced that the project is now set for 2037-2039 instead of the promised 2030.
People in town are voicing their frustrations. They feel let down, especially since Labour had been pushing for this hospital to be built on time. The estimated cost is a whopping £2 billion, which adds to the concern.
One resident, Ryan Parker, said it’s shocking but not surprising. Joanna MacQuillin echoed his sentiments, questioning why they were given a date if there wasn’t any funding. It just seems pointless to her.
Others, like Sheila Miles, are worried about the plans to build more houses before the hospital. She believes the hospital should be the top priority. More houses mean more people, and that’s just going to create more problems.
Sue Phillips pointed out that the hospital was a key promise made by Labour during the election. She’s baffled as to why it’s so low on the priority list. Jamie-Lee, a 20-year-old, agrees that building more houses will only increase the demand for hospital services.
Jay Akins from Sherfield on Loddon isn’t surprised by the delay. He never really thought it would be built on time. One anonymous woman summed it up well, saying the current hospital is falling apart and desperately needs replacing.
She mentioned the long waiting lists and lack of space for patients. The staff do a great job, but a new facility is long overdue. It’s clear that the community is eager for change and wants to see action.
