Following Local MP Mel Stride’s recent meeting with representatives from the NHS, Okehampton Town Council and NHS Property Services (NHSPS) regarding the disused ward at Okehampton Community Hospital, good progress continues to be made.
The ward has remained empty since beds were removed in 2017 following a public consultation. Since around 2015 food provision was being prepared off-site leading to the permanent kitchen fittings being taken out around 2017. NHS Property Services has made it clear that there is no reason why recently removed free-standing kitchen items could not be reinstated if required at a later date.
Mel Stride, MP for Central Devon and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, said: “I know the future of the ward has been a concern for many residents in Okehampton.
“My meeting was an opportunity to get everyone around the table to discuss possible options and accelerate the work.
“I was very pleased to see the announcement from NHS Property Services of a £1 million investment into the hospital and the ongoing working repairs to the roof.
“Progress also continues to be made on current and potential future Okehampton outpatient clinics.
“Further local working meetings including representation from the Town Council are now being planned and will be held on a regular basis, so that options for the future of the redundant ward can be identified and viable proposals worked up.”
Councillor Christine Marsh, Okehampton Town Council and former Okehampton Mayor, said: "We all recognise how important the hospital is to Okehampton and the wider community.
"The meeting with Mel Stride and various NHS representatives was a constructive session. I was pleased to be able to represent the views of the community, and it was helpful to hear from all the parties involved. We continue to explore options for the future of the hospital.”
