£22.7m Announced for North Devon District Hospital Residences

North Devon’s Liberal Democrat MP, Ian Roome, has welcomed £22.7m of new funding for North Devon District Hospital, calling it a hard-won result after months of pressure in Parliament and on the ground. However, Mr Roome says that far more needs to be done, and this is only the first step. 

NHS Royal Devon University Healthcare Trust announced they have received £22.7million from the New Hospital Programme to proceed with the redevelopment of staff residences at North Devon District Hospital (NDDH). The work will start at the start of next week as part of Phase 1 of the Our Future Hospital Programme.

Since the last election, North Devon’s MP has led the campaign for investment in the hospital, secured a visit from Health Minister Karin Smyth after launching a successful community petition, and questioned the Prime Minister multiple times alongside Liberal Democrat Leader Sir Ed Davey about urgent upgrades needed to keep services local and safe.

North Devon’s MP said that more needs to be done and in a shorter timeframe. Mr Roome has spoken to the NHS leadership and many staff members working at the hospital. He said they have emphasised to him the pressing need for urgent investment in some of the hospital’s most critical infrastructure.

Ian Roome, MP for North Devon, said:

“This is a real result for our campaign, and I’m pleased Ministers have finally listened. But more must be done to secure the future of our hospital for decades to come. I’m still pushing for the full package, including an upgraded ICU, modernised operating theatres, and a new MRI suite."

“North Devon Hospital staff go above and beyond every day. They deserve up-to-date equipment and the very best facilities we can provide for patients."