Health Secretary 'thrilled' about new West Suffolk hospital

West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust intends to build a new facility at Hardwick Manor next to its current hospital

Matt Hancock said he was "thrilled" a site had been picked for a new hospital which would serve his constituency.

West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (WSFT) has chosen Hardwick Manor in Bury St Edmunds, next to the current building.

The hospital was included in a list of 40 that would be rebuilt earlier this year, but the trust said some services would remain at its current site.

Chief executive, Stephen Dunn, said it was "the best use of public funds".

WSFT investigated four potential sites before it selected Hardwick Manor.

The trust bought the eight-bedroom house and grounds, which was on the market for £3.5m, earlier this year.

'Great step forward'

Mr Dunn said the new site next to the current hospital meant newer facilities, such as the education centre and eye care centre, could be kept.

• Hospital 'needs £1.1bn to realise rebuild plans'

• Vaccine rollout creates 'Dunkirk spirit'

• Mother thanks hospital for baby's coronavirus care

He also said the location would allow it to maintain links with St Nicholas Hospice and mental health provider Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust.

"The vision for the project is to ensure the way that health services are delivered is fit for our current and future needs," Mr Dunn added.

The West Suffolk Hospital is located in Bury St Edmunds and was identified by the government as one which would need investment

Health Secretary Mr Hancock, whose West Suffolk constituency neighbours Bury St Edmunds, said: "I am absolutely thrilled that Hardwick Manor has been chosen as the site for the new hospital for West Suffolk.

"Given the site is right next door to the current hospital this is a great step forward."