Fylde MP Mark Menzies has welcomed a £7 million funding boost which will bring about 43 upgrades and refurbishments to NHS services in the area. 

The Health Secretary announced a £600 million upgrade and refurbishment fund to benefit hospital staff, patients and visitors by March next year. 

Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust was awarded £1.9 million for 10 projects, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust was awarded £4.3 million for nine projects, and North West Ambulance Service will be given £822,000 for 24 separate improvements. 

The £600 million is being used by trusts across the country for works including electrical and ventilation system improvements, fire safety works and hospital lift replacements. 

Mr Menzies said: “These funds are part of the wider £1.5 billion announced by the Prime Minister to level up hospital infrastructure across our NHS. I’m pleased to see that money being used to benefit residents here in Fylde. 

“These projects will deliver immediate benefits and give our dedicated NHS staff better facilities to provide world-class care to patients. 

“We will also see further improvements to accident and emergency, infection control and mental health services through the other funds announced by the Prime Minister.” 

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “Alongside delivering on our manifesto commitment to build 40 new hospitals and 20 major hospital upgrades across the country, this investment will help our NHS build back better. 

“These crucial maintenance projects will deliver immediate benefits and provide NHS staff with the facilities they need to provide world-class care to their patients this winter, helping ensure the NHS is always there for you when you need it.”