I had the pleasure recently to accompany the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee on a visit to the APHA site in new Haw as part of their ongoing inquiry. During the visit the question was raised as to whether the facility needed to remain in Runnymede and Weybridge, or whether relocation to another site was a possibility. As you can imagine, I had a few points to make on that topic, given the need for great transport links, national and international connectivity and highly skilled workforce – all of which Runnymede and Weybridge provides.
In addition to highlighting these points to the committee, I have also written to them to put the clear case for the facilities needing to remain in the local area on record, as a formal part of their inquiry. You can view my letter to the committee below.
The work of the APHA is vital to UK health, security and trade. It is vital we invest in ensuring we maintain state of the art facilities which can identify, respond to and manage emerging risks. The right location is key to delivering this, which is why I believe it must be retained on its current site.
I welcome the Committee’s inquiry and the current focus on investing in redeveloping the site and services. I will continue to make the case for investment in essential national infrastructure such as the APHA site, and also for local jobs and businesses.
Following the visit I also submitted my response to the Defra local consultation on development plans for the APHA site, which you can view below.
In addition to the national benefits of the APHA, investment in the site could also help the local area too. Not only would it secure many highly skilled jobs, but the site also supports the community project at Holme Farm, and the proposals also outline plans for improved flood management, biodiversity and greater community engagement.
Following this consultation the outline plan will be submitted to Runnymede Council for approval, however further engagement will also be required to bring forward the detailed planning applications for the site.
