Plans to transform Chase Farm Hospital by replacing its ageing buildings with modern healthcare facilities took a major step forward yesterday when planning permission was granted by Enfield Council.

The redevelopment will see the existing hospital, which is in a poor condition and not well suited to modern patient care, upgraded to a high standard so that world-class care can be delivered in the best possible environment for patients and staff. 

The decision by Enfield’s planning committee also means that the area will benefit from additional homes, including affordable housing and key worker accommodation, and a new three-form primary school.

Once the final details of the scheme are agreed between the council and the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust – which has managed the hospital since July 2014 – the main construction works will start in early 2016 and the new hospital’s doors will open in 2018. All the services the hospital currently provides will continue during  the work. 

The multi-million pound scheme will be part funded by the sale of surplus land, with the Department of Health and the trust also contributing towards the cost. 

David Sloman, chief executive, said: “This is great news not only for the hospital and its staff, but also for the local community. 

“Redeveloping Chase Farm means that patients will receive care in a greatly improved environment, and the local area will also get much-needed homes and a new primary school.

“Chase Farm is simply not sustainable in its current form, so this decision means a secure future for the hospital and the services it provides.”

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. The planning application 14/04574/OUT is the top item. 
  2. On 12 March the Enfield Council planning committee approved the outline planning application for the redevelopment of Chase Farm Hospital. Before the redevelopment can begin the trust and the council must sign a section 106 agreement and conclude discussions on a number of other reserved matters. 
  3. More information is available at www.royalfree.nhs.uk/chasefarm 

Media contacts: rf.mediaenquiries@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, kidney and bone marrow transplantation, haemophilia, renal, HIV, infectious diseases, plastic surgery, immunology, 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."