A decision on a £36.2m funding bid to expand the Emergency Department at Walsall Manor Hospital should be made shortly, the Prime Minister has said today

Theresa May responded to Walsall North MP Eddie Hughes’ enquiry at Prime Minister’s Questions this lunchtime in which he asked for an update on the progress of the bid. The MP is also going to meet with the Health Secretary to discuss this

The Prime Minister told the House of Commons that the bid was submitted in July and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust would be told the outcome by autumn.

The department has seen a significant increase in the number of patients through its doors due to changes at neighbouring trusts and the current environment creates additional difficulties as it is too small. The construction of the new Midland Metropolitan Hospital will also have an impact on patient numbers in Walsall.

Richard Beeken, Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust Chief Executive, said: “Our Emergency Department is not fit for purpose and we need to create a better environment for both our patients and our staff. An expansion will allow us to care for an additional 8,000 patients a year, compared to the 79,000 we currently support.

“We have submitted our bid to NHS Improvement after working closely with colleagues there at all stages of our business case. It is encouraging to hear the Prime Minister’s response today that a decision is expected shortly.

“To ensure minimal impact to our service we would construct an extension which allows staff and patients to continue to use the department while work is ongoing.”