Building work continues to progress on the Beacon site. After a few delays we hope to have the second phase of the extension handed over to us mid October to be operational from 23rd October. At this point a large portion of the car park will be returned to us and the builders move into the final third phase to reconfigure some internal upstairs space to provide new clinical and administration space.
This is really exciting for patients and staff. We have been working on this with our patients and vital support from our Patient Participation Group for nearly 5 years now. We have continually listened to our patients and amended plans to deliver the best options for patients. The new development when complete will offer 15 new rooms, an additional operating theatre with recovery, large meeting room and additional parking. This has been a really challenging time for general practice with many GPs leaving the profession. We have been working hard to build our team and have recruited some new GPs, nurse practitioners,a pharmacy team, physiotherapists, mental health workers, wellbeing coaches and a paramedic. This additional space is much needed for our growing diverse team putting us in a good position to better support patients.
This has been quite possibly the worst time to build with rising borrowing and building costs. Turn out costs are expected to reach almost £3 million. There remains a funding deficit to help deliver the project within budget. We would like to thank patients for support who have donated money to help support the project or contributed to the Sid Valley Equipment Fund to help this move forwards. Patient support is always greatly valued. If you wish to make a donation please contact sidvalleysecretaries@nhs.net or call us on 01395512601 or write to us.
At the same time a 3 room facility with reception is due to start operating from Sidmouth Victoria Hospital for those in the centre of town who can no access the Beacon Medical Centre. We continue to work with NHS Property services and Devon county council to deliver the best solution for patients on this site. The hospital rooms are just waiting for IT to go in and lease arrangements with NHSPS to be finalised.
