Campaigners are celebrating after the Government announced a £350 million project to redevelop Whipps Cross University Hospital.

The Barts Health NHS Trust site is one of six hospitals to benefit from £2.7 billion in funding over the next five years, as part of a new ‘health infrastructure programme.’

The announcement follows years of campaigning. Iain Duncan Smith, MP for Chingford and Woodford Green, last week wrote to the Prime Minister to say buildings on the site dated back to the early 1900s and were "in dire need" of replacement.

Mr Smith also outlines the support from the community for the hospital in the past, in particular when plans were put forward to close the hospital.

In response to the announcement, Mr Smith said: “This is an absolutely wonderful moment. It is a triumph for those who have persevered in their support for this significant part of the community.

“Today’s announcement is the culmination of my work with constituents and the Whipps Cross team over the past 27 years and is a fantastic vote of confidence in Whipps Cross, which will massively benefit the constituents – whether staff or patients – who need a new hospital.”

“My gratitude goes the senior management, doctors, nurses and all the staff, for whom this achievement is a real vote of thanks and will in due course help them in their work.”

Alwen Williams, group chief executive of Barts Health NHS Trust, said: “We’re delighted that Whipps Cross is one of six hospitals in the country that will receive government funding for a new build.

“This announcement will secure the long-term future of the hospital and enable the patient and staff environment to be greatly improved.

“This is a significant investment in healthcare in East London, and I would like to thank our staff, patients and partners for working with us to secure this funding.

“We look forward to working closely with our local communities to realise our exciting vision for Whipps Cross Hospital, to improve the safety, care and experience of patients for years to come.”

Cllr Clare Coghill, leader of Waltham Forest Council, said: “This is fantastic news for the people of Waltham Forest and the hard-working staff of Whipps Cross.

“For years we have been campaigning with partners across the borough and our residents to secure the vital funding needed to upgrade facilities and improve the medical care available for patients.

“A new hospital building means this important local institution, which has a special place in the heart of so many families in East London because of the care they have received there, will continue its vital work for years to come improving the life chances of patients.

“Our residents deserve nothing less.”