Reopening of Martin Ward delayed following further safety checks

Further environmental concerns identified during checks, extending temporary closure beyond initial four-week estimate

The reopening of Martin Ward at Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital has been temporarily delayed, despite earlier assurances that the closure would only last for around four weeks.

Manx Care originally announced in October that the ward would close towards the end of that month to allow remedial works following a pest control issue in part of the building’s roof space.

At the time, it said the closure was expected to last for around four weeks, with patients relocated to Ward 19 at Noble’s Hospital, and no anticipated knock-on pressure on services.

However, in an update issued on social media, Manx Care says plans to reopen the ward have now been paused after a delay in clinical sign-off.

It says recent environmental checks have raised concerns that require further investigation, meaning the ward will remain closed for at least one further week while additional cleaning and retesting are carried out.

Manx Care says patient safety remains its top priority, adding it is acting early and cautiously to ensure the ward is completely safe before reopening.

Patients with clinic appointments scheduled in Martin Ward will be contacted directly if arrangements change, while services will continue elsewhere where possible.

Staff are expected to be on site to guide patients to the correct locations, with further updates to be shared as more information becomes available.