Update on search for new Cromer hospital site
Representatives of public organisations, councillors, planners and health officials have met to consider the six locations in Cromer that might be suitable for a new £25 million hospital for northern Norfolk.
A group of more than 30 people undertook all-day site appraisals on May 26. Each site was closely evaluated on a range of criteria such as suitability, availability, accessibility, clinical/social services, and environmental impact.
The six sites studied were:
- Holt Road
- Mill Road (Current hospital site)
- Norwich Road
- Roughton Road
- Runton Road
- Overstrand Road
The result of the assessments has concluded that there are two favoured sites. One is the Norwich Road site on land just before the railway bridge and the other is on the Holt Road near the district council offices.
Rita Bell, Director of Commissioning, North Norfolk PCT, said: “The site appraisal day was really useful because of the involvement of different agencies and representatives who were able to take an informed view on the various sites. We are really pleased that we have come up with a range of site options to pursue.”
Clive Stockton, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, North Norfolk District Council, said: “The process undertaken by a wide spectrum of representatives has thoroughly evaluated the available options. I believe that a logical and supportable conclusion has been reached in putting forward the two favoured sites.”
In June the boards of North Norfolk PCT, the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Trust, and North Norfolk District Council cabinet will need to ratify the shortlisted sites
The plan is for a £25 million hospital that combines a GP practice, an eight station dialysis unit, social services, day surgery, 24 beds and community health services under one roof.
Services that will be seen in the new development include:
- An integrated inpatient unit of 24 beds for post acute care, support of day surgery and direct GP admissions
- 19 day case beds / chairs
- Minor injuries unit
- Eight dialysis stations
- Out-patient services
- An MRI scanner, x-ray and ultrasound facilities
- Modern facilities for an eight partner GP practice which supports the consolidation beginning in 2005 of the two GP practices in the town
- Community staff base transferred from Cromer Health Office, currently in St. Mary's House
- Mental health facility in support of services in the hub at Kelling
- A base for social services