As our towns and villages continue to grow, particularly with a new Local Plan being developed, we must get the infrastructure to go with it. During discussions about the Local Plan, I emphasised the importance of providing infrastructure to go with any new houses and prevent strain on existing services. In addition to education and transport, I continue to campaign for improved local medical facilities, such as re-developing key hospitals serving Bushey and Radlett, a new health hub in Borehamwood and backing community pharmacies.

I know how important Watford General Hospital is to our community, it is used by many local residents, including me – my son was born there. It was fantastic that the previous government announced Watford General Hospital would receive much needed government funding, with a fully funded new hospital built by 2030. However, I was extremely disappointed to learn that the government have delayed the redevelopment of Watford General, with construction not starting until at least 2032.  I will continue to work with the local NHS and scrutinise the government to ensure we have the infrastructure in place as soon as possible to serve our community.

Given the government’s regrettable decision not to fund Watford General Hospital’s refurbishment in this Parliament, there is an even greater need for new healthcare facilities in Borehamwood. I have raised this with the Secretary of State for Health and other relevant authorities to make the case for these facilities. 

Residents need improved access to treatment and the NHS needs pressure alleviated, which is why I am proud to back community pharmacies. This continues on the previous government’s Pharmacy First programme, which expanded pharmacies’ capacity to treat common conditions, such as shingles and sinusitis.

I continue to hold local and national governments to account to ensure we have the infrastructure in place to serve our growing community.