Summary
A new report says that seven hospitals in the UK, built with a concrete that isn't safe, won't be rebuilt by the government's original 2030 deadline. The revised completion dates are now set for 2032 and 2033, but the National Audit Office warns some projects might miss even these new deadlines. This delay results in rising maintenance costs and continued risks for the current buildings until the reconstruction is finished.
Key Facts
- Seven hospitals were built using reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac), which is not durable.
- The UK government initially set a target to rebuild these hospitals by 2030.
- The completion dates have now moved to 2032 and 2033.
- Metal props are currently holding up some parts of these hospitals due to safety concerns.
- These hospitals will need over £500 million in maintenance by 2025.
- The NHS plans to remove all Raac concrete by 2035.
- The government has allocated £1.6 billion for addressing these issues over the next four years.
- Delays might continue due to a tight construction schedule and limited backup plans.
