A new programme leader has been confirmed for the Government’s project of building 40 new UK hospitals by 2030. Natalie Forrest, a registered NHS nurse with a wealth of construction, health and project management experience, will head up the construction initiative. Forrest worked most recently as the Chief Executive of Chase Farm Hospital and has 30 years experience working within the NHS. Recently, she led the rapid construction and operationalisation of the NHS Nightingale facility in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In total, 48 hospitals will be constructed by the year 2030 according to the plans and £3.7 billion has been committed so far. Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust’s new £72.6 million facilities – which will be finalised by 2023 – will improve the quality of mental health and learning disability services in the regions by combining innovative design with a holistic approach to patient care and safety. Salford Royal has received final confirmation of its £67.4 million new hospital building, and construction work will begin soon. The hospital will include a new trauma centre for people with life-changing or life-threatening injuries. “The New Hospital Programme – as part of our Health Infrastructure Plan – will transform the delivery of NHS healthcare infrastructure to build back better and will ensure our country has world-class healthcare facilities”, said Health Secretary Matt Hancock. 

Hancock also expressed his praise of the appointment of Natalie Forrest, whose construction and project management knowledge led to the transformation of the ExCel conference centre into a Nightingale hospital within nine days. Starting this month, she will oversee a delivery board across the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England and Improvement, which will work closely with a network of NHS trusts.