Surrey MP Dr Al Pinkerton Criticizes Starmer's Response on New Hospital Site

In a heated exchange during Prime Minister's Questions on July 3, 2026, Surrey Heath MP Dr Al Pinkerton expressed disappointment with Sir Keir Starmer's response regarding the proposed site for a new hospital in Surrey. Pinkerton deemed the location at Pine Ridge Golf Club as inappropriate and called for an independent review of the decision.

Concerns Over Hospital Location

During the session, Pinkerton criticized the plan to replace Frimley Park Hospital at the golf club site, citing concerns about transport and accessibility. He emphasized that the development would negatively impact the historic Frimley Common. Starmer countered Pinkerton's objections, stating, "His approach has been on the one hand to demand a new hospital, and then oppose actually building it."

Starmer highlighted that the funding for the new hospital was a result of Labour investment, positioning Frimley Park among the first hospitals in the UK slated for rebuilding. He remarked, "Labour is building new hospitals, and the honourable gentleman is standing up for golf courses...I can’t think of anything more Lib Dem."

Pinkerton's Written Response

Following the exchange, Pinkerton sent a letter to the Prime Minister expressing his dissatisfaction with the lack of engagement on his substantive concerns. He stated, "This has never been about a golf course...nor is it about opposing a new hospital." Pinkerton's letter outlined his belief that the site was fundamentally unsuitable and urged the government to pause the site selection process.

In his correspondence, Pinkerton also raised issues regarding transparency in the financial aspects of the project and the integrity of the site selection process. He questioned whether alternative locations had been adequately explored by the Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust.

Next Steps for Frimley Park Hospital

The Chief Executive of Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, Lance McCarthy, responded to the criticism by emphasizing the benefits of a new hospital. He stated, "A new Frimley Park Hospital will mean safer buildings, modern facilities and an environment that helps our staff deliver the very best care." Work on the new hospital is expected to commence in 2028 or 2029.

As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the government will address the concerns raised by Dr Pinkerton and whether an independent review will be conducted.