Leighton Hospital has applied for permission to build a new two-storey modular ward on its Crewe site.

The Crewe hospital was built in the 1970s using reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete panels (RAAC planks) in the roof which now need replacing on safety grounds.

A design and access statement states: "The proposed development will provide decant accommodation, which in turn will allow Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (MCHFT) to undertake essential RAAC refurbishment/ stabilisation works to existing wards, ensuring patient safety. The proposed development also increases overall bed capacity."

The proposed new block will be built in the centre of the hospital site on an existing car park.

It will comprise 60-bed spaces, which will be provided through 12 four-bed bays and 12 single-bed rooms across the two storeys.

The planning statement submitted by the Darwin Group Ltd, on behalf of MCHFT, states: "A specialist therapy space is provided for occupational therapy and post-surgery recovery.

"A day room is also included for the patients, outside of the four-bed and single-bed accommodation.

"Essential complementary accommodation is included to service the ward, such as clean/dirty utility spaces, cleaners' stores and linen stores.

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"A specific staff rest area is included."

The application, number 22/3972N, can be viewed on the planning portal on the Cheshire East Council website.

The last date for submitting comments is November 16, 2022, and the application will be determined by an officer under delegated authority.