A new hospital development in South Ribble has taken a significant step forward with the completion of land purchase. However, the timeline for construction has been pushed back by nearly a decade, with doors not expected to open until the early to mid-2040s.
Royal Preston Hospital Land Purchase Finalized
The land earmarked for the new Royal Preston Hospital, located off Stanifield Lane in the Farington area, is now officially in the hands of local NHS leaders. This land acquisition marks a crucial milestone after a lengthy delay in the project.
Timeline Changes and Project Overview
- The first section of land was acquired in 2024.
- Initial construction was set to start in 2030.
- Completion was expected by the mid-2030s.
- Revised estimates now push the opening to the early 2040s.
In January 2025, Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced that the revised start date for construction would be between 2037 and 2039. This means the hospital would not be treating patients for nearly 20 years after the initial plans were proposed.
Funding and Future Steps
The recent government funding release has enabled the NHS to secure the remaining part of the 64-acre site. In March 2026, funding for the project was confirmed, allowing further progress despite the delays.
The land that has been newly acquired was previously owned by Lancashire County Council. This area is set to complement the ongoing development of the ‘Lancashire Central’ logistics, retail, and leisure hub nearby.
Projected Costs and Public Involvement
The estimated cost for developing the Royal Preston Hospital is approximately £2 billion, as announced 18 months ago. Public consultation will be a crucial step in the development process, as the NHS has emphasized that community input is necessary before any final decisions are made.
Planning permission will also be needed to move forward with the project, ensuring that all regulatory requirements are addressed. The Labour government has been scrutinized for the previous delays, attributing them to inadequacies in funding commitments made by their Conservative predecessors.
