Private hospital gets approval to expand

The privately-run Fitzwilliam Hospital has received planning permission for a three-storey extension which would include a new theatre suite.
Fitzwilliam Hospital in Peterborough ENGEMN00120130917112621Fitzwilliam Hospital in Peterborough ENGEMN00120130917112621
Fitzwilliam Hospital in Peterborough ENGEMN00120130917112621

The plans were unanimously passed by Peterborough City Council’s planning committee on Tuesday despite opposition from neighbours who feel that the expansion is too high and will force more people to park outside their homes.

The hospital in Milton Way, South Bretton, is run by Ramsay Health Care UK, and as well as a theatre suite it now has permission to create a new administration office and an extended waiting room into the main entrance.

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Further improvements will see 27 new parking spaces and internal works to the restaurant, physiotherapy department and main reception waiting room.

Jim Lomas of agent DLP Planning Consultants Ltd, said: “So far as we are concerned this is a modest extension. Seventy-five per cent of the work undertaken at Fitzwilliam is undertaken on behalf of the NHS.”

Mr Lomas said there would be adequate parking provision even at the busiest times, and that the extension will improve the hospital’s appearance.

He added: “Overall, we are very content with the scheme as it has come forward. I’m struggling to see any clear evidence of demonstrable harm.

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“The merits of the scheme are considerable for growing the community around this area.”

Councillors complimented the application, with Councillor June Bull saying she was content to recommend planning permission be granted.

Cllr Stuart Martin said he had “no qualms whatsoever”, and committee chair Cllr Chris Harper said: “I would like to congratulate the hospital for wanting to be a good neighbour. That’s refreshing.”