England's NHS maintenance backlog hits £15.9 billion, threatening safety despite promised funding.

The NHS maintenance backlog in England has reached £15.9 billion, a 15.7% rise from last year, exceeding the annual estate operating cost of £14 billion. Deteriorating infrastructure, including flooded corridors and unsafe roofs, threatens patient and staff safety across hospitals, mental health services, and GP practices. While the government pledged £30 billion over five years for repairs—£5 billion for urgent cases—experts say funding remains insufficient. Rising parking costs totaled £84.4 million, and officials assert new investments will improve safety and modernize facilities.