Specialists to examine plans to shrink ‘oversized’ Whitby hospital

Health chiefs have appointed a team of specialists to assess options for Whitby Hospital.

They have said the current hospital is oversized and investing in more community services will allow more people to be treated in their own homes or close by, with less reliance on hospital beds.

Public talks have already begun on the proposal which would see only around 25 to 30 per cent of the current site continue to be used as a hospital.

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The remaining area is likely to be sold off for housing and an extra care development, which in turn would pay for the redevelopment plans.

A report prepared for the consultation warned: “The current hospital is out of date compared to modern healthcare standards and is oversized in relation to current and projected levels of activity.”

Community Ventures Management Ltd has been appointed to look at the options for the Whitby Hospital site in detail the Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby Clinical Commissioning Group’s (CCG) has announced.

Members of the Community Ventures team’s estates specialists will be looking at identifying options for the redevelopment of the whole or part of the Whitby Hospital site and consider alternative uses for the land.

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It will also assess whether any changes to the ownership of Whitby Hospital are required and make recommendations on commissioning arrangements and implications for any future service plans. A programme for the delivery and next steps to secure the future of Whitby Hospital and redesign of community services for Whitby and the surrounding areas will also be produced.

Dr George Campbell, a Whitby GP and CCG governing body member, said: “The CCG requires specialist advice to provide a strategic estates review, options appraisal and recommendations for the future of Whitby Hospital, including commercial and financial implications.

“We are very pleased to have appointed Community Ventures to carry out this work. They have a wealth of expertise and knowledge that will help us ensure health services in Whitby and the surrounding area meet the needs of local people. A formal set of recommendations for everyone involved – including members of the public – will be produced for consideration, and for the CCG Governing Body to approve.”

The existing Whitby Hospital site is freehold and currently owned by York Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

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