Seaton Community Hospital

Opened the debate

Richard Foord raised concerns about the plans to strip away a whole wing of Seaton community hospital in east Devon, arguing that it poses a serious risk to the long-term viability of the hospital. He emphasised the wide range of services provided at the hospital and highlighted the local donations which funded its construction and maintenance over decades. The MP also expressed frustration with NHS Property Services' high rent charges for an unused space and called on the government to take action to protect the facility from potential demolition or sale.

Government Response

The Minister responded to Richard Foord's concerns, outlining the history of NHS reforms in Devon that led to the current situation at Seaton Hospital. She explained that NHS Property Services operates on a cost recovery basis and that any reduction in charges would result in a loss to the health budget unless offset by actual cost reductions. The Minister noted that while local community groups have expressed interest in using some of the empty ward space, the high rental charge is an insurmountable barrier. She emphasised that decisions about the use of NHS property should be taken at a local level and assured that efforts are being made to resolve the situation.