Artist's impressionPlans for the transformation of Chase Farm Hospital were given a boost yesterday as Enfield Council planning committee voted in favour of modifications to the original proposals.

The main change is an altered shape and orientation for the new hospital which will result in significant scope to expand facilities in response to future needs. The expansion will be possible by building on retained land and enlarging the new building.

The application also confirms the trust’s plans to retain Highlands wing for use as rehabilitation wards.

A reserved matters application to finalise details of the new hospital, including its appearance, is due to be considered by the planning committee in January 2016.

Construction of the new hospital itself is set to begin early next year, subject to full planning approval and government review of the project’s business case.

David Sloman, chief executive of the Royal Free London, said: “We very much welcome the planning committee’s decision to approve the modification to our outline proposals.

“By giving us even more flexibility to expand in the future, these changes reinforce our commitment to deliver fantastic new hospital facilities that will provide Enfield residents and patients with world class care for many years to come.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

  1. Full details of the application can be viewed at http://planningandbuildingcontrol.enfield.gov.uk/online-applications by entering the search term EN2 8JL in the search box.
  2. More information is available at www.royalfree.nhs.uk/chasefarm

Media contacts: debbie.kirby@nhs.net or call 020 7830 2963

About the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust

The Royal Free began as a pioneering organisation and continues to play a leading role in the care of patients. Our mission is to provide world class expertise and local care. In the 21st century, the Royal Free London continues to lead improvements in healthcare.

The Royal Free London attracts patients from across the country and beyond to its specialist services in liver and kidney transplantation, haemophilia, renal care, HIV, infectious diseases, plastic surgery, immunology, Parkinson's disease, vascular surgery, cardiology, amyloidosis and scleroderma and we are a member of the academic health science partnership UCLPartners.

In July 2014 Barnet Hospital and Chase Farm Hospital became part of the Royal Free London. Read 'A bigger trust, a better future'.