The MP for Harrow West has supported plans to redevelop the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital  site in Stanmore.

Labour MP Gareth Thomas recently visited the hospital to discuss the redevelopment with the trust, which it hopes will help ensure excellent care is given to the patients.

The hospital employs more than 1,300 people making it one of the area’s largest employers.

The new plans state that building contracts will prioritise jobs for local people and offer apprenticeships and skills training initiatives for residents.

Mr Thomas hopes this will help bolster Harrow’s economy.

The trust submitted its application to Harrow Borough Council in January and are waiting for their decision, expected on the March 21.