KEIGHLEY and Ilkley MP Robbie Moore says he fears concrete panels in Airedale Hospital are an “accident waiting to happen” following a leaked report revealing hospitals across the country are having problems with the material.

A BBC investigation into a leaked report highlighted concerns about problems related to the use of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) planks that have deteriorated or have structural weaknesses. Between the 1960s and 1980s they were used in roofs, floors and walls of NHS buildings and had an expected lifespan of 30 years.

Hinchingbrooke Hospital, Cambridgeshire, is closing two operating theatres to heavier patients until March while structural surveys are undertaken.

The BBC has also learned of the existence of an emergency plan in the event of a “significant hospital structural failure” in eastern England. The BBC reported that Airedale was one of the hospitals facing problems because of RAAC roof planks.

Mr Moore said: “These reports are worrying but unsurprising. RAAC is well known for its structural deficiencies. There is an accident waiting to happen here. RAAC has an expected lifespan of 30 years. Going beyond this lifespan could have severe consequences.

“This news re-enforces the need for a brand new hospital at Airedale. Currently 83 per cent of Airedale General Hospital is made from this material – including the roof. The fantastic staff at Airedale Hospital deserve a new building.”

Mr Moore also brought up the issue in Parliament earlier this year when he said: “Airedale has the largest NHS hospital flat roof in the country. While many of these 1960s constructions have come and gone, Airedale Hospital remains. It is thought to be the oldest aerated concrete hospital in the UK.”

Vicky Pickles, director of corporate affairs at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are working with regional and national colleagues to address the risk posed by our concrete construction. We monitor our concrete panels closely and have embarked on a programme of remedial works to ensure the safety of our patients and staff. Earlier this year we secured £15m funding to build a new home for our critical care unit and to provide space to enable the temporary relocation of other wards as part of our programme of maintenance work on the main hospital building.

“However, we are realistic that this is only a short-term measure, and we are working with colleagues at NHS England and NHS Improvement on a longer term solution, which would potentially involve a phased approach to rebuilding large parts of the hospital.

“We continue to explore options around future capital programmes to secure additional funding for the long term. The safety of our patients, visitors and staff is paramount, so we are doing everything we can to mitigate any risks. Should we find anything of particular concern we will investigate, implement local contingency plans and close the area if necessary.”