Local Hospital Improvements Delayed by Over a Decade, Community Disappointed
Plans to upgrade North Devon District Hospital have been pushed back, leaving locals frustrated and concerned about patient safety.
North Devon, England, Hospital, Patient Safety, Ian Roome
This delay is part of a broader issue affecting several hospital projects across England. Health Secretary Wes Streeting mentioned that the original plans, which aimed to build 40 new hospitals by 2030, are now considered too expensive. It’s a real bummer for the community.
Local MP Ian Roome is understandably upset. He’s been pushing for these improvements since he got elected, and he calls this delay a “devastating blow” to the area. He’s been vocal about how crucial it is for North Devon, especially since it’s the most remote district general hospital in mainland England.
Roome has been urging health ministers to visit and see the situation for themselves. He’s worried about patient safety and the risks that come with waiting so long for upgrades. He even criticized the previous government for not keeping their promises.
The new timeline is frustrating for everyone involved. Roome pointed out that the hospital already had a delivery partner and was close to finalizing the business case. Now, it feels like all that hard work is just being tossed aside.
He’s also calling for the government to share its impact assessment on how these delays will affect patients. It’s clear that the community is feeling the pressure, and Roome is determined to keep fighting for the necessary changes. He’s not going to let this slide without a challenge.