Another large investment is being made into repairs, maintenance and upgrades for vital health and education infrastructure
The investment into school and hospital repair will be spread across 656 schools and more than 400 hospitals across the UK.
Work includes tackling leaky pipes, ventilation and electrical issues, roof repairs, and asbestos removal.
School and hospital repair will prevent loss of appointments and education
Schools will be receiving a share of £470m, while hospitals, mental health units, and ambulance sites will receive £750m.
These investments come as part of an effort to work through a backlog of public infrastructure repairs, which is having an effect on the public through both the health and education system.
Over £100m will be allocated to maternity units for things such as updating ventilation systems and neonatal intensive care units. Meanwhile the investment into school repairs will go on top of the £2.1bn investment going into the school estate in 2025, announced in the Autumn budget.
In January this year, the National Audit Office found that building maintenance covered by the government sat at a minimum of £49bn, including schools and hospitals, but also other key infrastructure such as prisons.
Furthermore, schools are often left in situations whereby they cannot pay for maintenance themselves, such as many in Stoke-on-Trent that are affected by sky-high costs due to PFI contracts.
Many schools are still feeling the effects of RAAC, with some temporary classrooms being allowed to stay for another year.
“This investment is about more than just buildings”
Education secretary, Bridget Phillipson, said: “The defining image of the school estate under the previous government was children sitting under steel props to stop crumbling concrete falling on their heads. It simply isn’t good enough.
“Parents expect their children to learn in a safe warm environment. It’s what children deserve, and it is what we are delivering.
“This investment is about more than just buildings – it’s about showing children that their education matters, their futures matter, and this government is determined to give them the best possible start in life.”
Simon Corben, director and head of profession for NHS Estates and Facilities at NHS England, said: “I welcome this funding as a long-overdue step toward tackling the unacceptable state of parts of the NHS estate. Too many buildings have been allowed to fall into disrepair, putting patient safety and staff working conditions at risk.
“It is now vital that NHS England and local leaders deliver – every pound must be spent wisely, with clear accountability and a laser focus on improving frontline care.”
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