NHS trusts across the North-East have been allocated a share of £17 million to upgrade their facilities ahead of winter.

Hospitals could use the new funding to expand waiting areas and increase the number of treatment cubicles, helping them boost A&E capacity by providing additional space, reducing overcrowding and improving infection control measures.

They could also increase the provision of same day emergency care and improve patient flow in the hospital to help the NHS respond to winter pressures and the risk from further outbreaks of coronavirus.

Projects will have to be completed by the start of next year so hospitals benefit from the upgrades during the peak of winter.

A spokesperson for County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, said, “We’re delighted to be receiving £3.76m to extend the emergency departments at University Hospital of North Durham and Darlington Memorial Hospital.

“The extensions will include facilities for patients to be assessed rapidly and by the most appropriate specialist which, in many cases will avoid admission to hospital.

“This is particularly important during the busy winter months.”

The Northern Echo:

Peter Gibson, MP for Darlington

Peter Gibson, MP for Darlington, said: “I am thrilled to see this continued commitment to Darlington Memorial Hospital, investing in our essential A&E Department.

“From day one I have pressed from continued investment in our precious DMH and this investment will see services secured and continued for the people of Darlington and the wider region.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said people should feel confident visiting A&E for the treatment they need, reassuring those who remain concerned that strict social distancing and hygiene measures are in place to protect patients.

Mr Johnson, who confirmed 117 trusts nationally will be allocated a share of £300 million, said: “These upgrades will help our fantastic NHS prepare for the winter months, helping them to deliver essential services and reduce the risk of coronavirus infections.

“It’s vital that those who need emergency treatment this winter access it, and for those who remain concerned about visiting hospitals, let me assure you that the NHS has measures in place to keep people safe.”

The amounts for the region’s NHS foundation trusts are as follows: County Durham and Darlington - £3.7 million, Gateshead - £1.4 million, North Tees and Hartlepool - £3 million, Northumbria - £1 million, South Tees - £3.1 million, South Tyneside and Sunderland - £3.7 million, Newcastle - £10 million and York £900,000.

The announcement has been welcomed by the region’s Conservative MPs.

Richard Holden, MP for North West Durham, said: “This funding boost will ensure we are as prepared as we can be for any challenges that the winter months may bring.”

Simon Clarke, MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, said the funding will help James Cook University Hospital ensure it has the capacity to treat everyone who needs help safely this winter.

He said: “While Covid-19 has undoubtedly posed huge challenges to our NHS, it is important to remember that vital services such as A&E are there for you and your family when you need them and our fantastic emergency care teams have continued to provide safe care for everyone.”

The Northern Echo:

Dehenna Davison, MP for Bishop Auckland

Dehenna Davison, MP for Bishop Auckland, said she will continue to campaign restore the A&E department in the town.

She said: “I am delighted to see this investment in Durham and Darlington A&Es to help relieve pressures on our emergency wards this winter.

“However, clearly the best way to relieve such pressure long term is to expand capacity by restoring our A&E department.”