Weston Hospital acquisition

We can now announce that Taunton and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust  have been agreed as the preferred acquirer for Weston.

The process will enter the next stage where the NHS TDA, Monitor and the two health trusts will negotiate potential contractual and business arrangements. This phase is expected to end in Spring 2015.

Nick Wood, Chief Executive, Weston Area Health NHS Trust said: “We have spent the last few years seeking a long term sustainable solution for the services at Weston Area Health NHS Trust and are pleased that we have now identified a partner who we can work with to secure the future.

“Over the next few months we will be working with colleagues at the NHS TDA and Taunton and Somerset to ensure the production of a robust business case which ensures that the transaction progresses and reaches its intended conclusion in 2015.”

Lisa Manson, Director at the NHS Trust Development Authority said:

“Weston Area Health NHS Trust has taken significant steps over the last 18 months to improve the quality of care it provides to patients. However it is currently unsustainable in its current form.

“It is our assessment that an acquisition with Taunton and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust presents a sustainable future for Weston and can guarantee the longevity of patient services for the foreseeable future.

“We will now work with both organisations to develop a full and robust business case.”