THE proposed merger of Whipps Cross Hospital with two other trusts has taken a step closer after NHS London gave its approval for the plans to be developed in more detail.

It comes after the trust boards of Barts, Newham and Whipps all agreed last month to approve the outline business case for the plan.

The merger will allow the hospitals to gain foundation status, enabling them to share talented doctors and resources.

Management at Whipps Cross, in Leytonstone, also hope it will open up extra funding to pay off its historical debts.

A final decision will require approval from the Department of Health and Secretary of State following the publication of the full business case later this year.

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