It has been announced that Natalie Forrest has been appointed to lead plans to build 40 new hospitals in England by 2030, including three in Devon. A registered nurse who has worked in the NHS for over 30 years, Ms Forrest led the construction and set-up of the NHS Nightingale Hospital in London in response to the pandemic. Her unrivalled experience in health management and nursing along with project management knowledge makes her the perfect choice to oversee the construction programme worth £3.7 billion.
The New Hospital Programme includes new facilities in both Torbay and Plymouth, both of which will benefit the constituents of Totnes and South Devon. Developments at Torbay Hospital will include a new acute ‘hot’ hospital and a ‘cold’ elective centre, while a new integrated emergency care hospital will be built at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth with dedicated areas for children and frail patients.
Speaking after the announcement, Anthony said "I welcome the news that plans are progressing and these new hospitals will ensure we have world-class healthcare facilities across the country for decades to come."
