£4 million needed to address critical building and infrastructure issues at RDCH

Independent survey finds 'immediate investment' is needed.

An independent survey's found Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital needs around £4 million of immediate investment to address critical building and infrastructure issues.

Several services have been relocated from the site since last year after 'significant issues' with the building were discovered whilst tackling a pest infestation on Martin Ward.

The Department of Infrastructure has already spent around £1.5 million addressing some of the issues that were found.

Now, the independent survey by UK-based specialists Bellrock says £4 million is needed now to address issues with roofs, heating, water systems, fire safety, and doors and windows.

A further £2.5 million is then expected to be needed over the next 10 years to replace some key systems such as ventilation, medical gases, electrical wiring and communications infrastructure.

Shaun Stacey, Interim Executive Director of Operations at Manx Care, said: "Safety remains our top priority and services continue to operate safely from Ramsey District Cottage Hospital, with the Minor Injuries Unit reopening earlier this week as scheduled. 

"The survey helps to provide a clear, independent picture of where investment is needed, and the findings will help us plan and prioritise improvements for the future."

Manx Care says that since the start of work at the site in October 2025, modifications have been made in the areas that are currently open to the public, namely Minor Injuries & Illness Unit, Radiology, Outpatients and Dermatology/Skin Services to make sure they meet statutory compliance standards for Health & Safety and Fire Protection as well as being refurbished to improve patient experience.

You can read the full condition survey here.

The report's publication comes as a result of a Tynwald question for written answer from Ramsey MHK Alex Allinson.

Manx Radio got his reaction to the report immediately after its release: