Hospital campaign hits 1,000 signature milestone

The campaign for an additional site for Stepping Hill in Stockport town centre has hit a major milestone with over 1,000 people signing the petition to replace some of the current crumbling buildings with new facilities near the new transport exchange.

Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate Lisa Smart (Hazel Grove) called on the Government to invest more into repairing the existing Stepping Hill site, as well developing the additional site, after a litany of recent incidents.

Lisa Smart said: “I’m delighted so many people have already backed our campaign for an additional site. It simply makes sense – it’s accessible, available and affordable. Why wouldn’t the Department of Health do this?

“Not only does it make it easier for a lot of people to access the additional site, it will take the pressure off the existing site, meaning that it can be redeveloped more easily. We can get two high quality sites in an organised and achievable way – it’s win–win.”

Following the initial closure of the Outpatients B building – which is already being demolished, and further ceiling collapses on the site in March, the need for work now is urgent.

Lisa added: “Short-term solutions are desperately needed to keep the hospital providing services right here, right now.

“Longer term, we have the opportunity to create a higher-quality, more accessible hospital, by adding this additional site in the centre of Stockport. There are practical solutions available to the crisis in the NHS – and we’re presenting this one to the Department of Health. We know the Government keep talking about new hospitals: the people of Stockport deserve to get the best.”

People wishing to sign the petition can find it at www.lisasmart.org.uk/new-hospital-stockport.