The delay in rebuilding North Devon District Hospital has sparked outrage and concern for patient safety in the region
North Devon: People are really upset about the government’s decision. They’ve decided to delay rebuilding North Devon District Hospital for at least ten years. MP Ian Roome is leading the charge, calling it a “devastating blow.”
This news comes after a Labour review of the New Hospital Programme. Remember when Boris Johnson promised this back in 2020? Well, Health Secretary Wes Streeting said other projects are getting priority now. They’re starting work on a new emergency care center at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth before 2030.
The hospital in Barnstaple is the most remote in mainland England. It has serious infrastructure issues, especially with the theatres and critical care. What was supposed to be done by 2030 is now pushed to between 2035 and 2038.
People are worried about how this delay will affect patient safety. The New Hospital Programme in North Devon already had a partner and was almost ready for final approvals.
Ian Roome MP said, “This is a devastating decision. Patient safety here is at risk, and we’ve been let down. We can’t wait any longer for help.”
He added that neglecting NDDH will impact the whole Devon healthcare system. Both the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital and Derriford Hospital are already under pressure. If NDDH’s patient load increases, it could be a disaster. Plus, locals might have to travel far to reach the next nearest hospital in Exeter.
Roome insists the Health Secretary must release an impact assessment. He wants to know what these delays mean for people in North Devon and how long they’ll have to deal with inadequate health services.
There’s also been criticism about delays at Torbay Hospital. Kevin Foster, the former Conservative MP for Torbay, expressed shock that their rebuild might not even start until 2035. He finds it hard to believe that replacing buildings from the 1920s isn’t a higher priority.
