Former council offices could help reduce waiting times at Dorset County Hospital
Dorset County Hospital are looking at the possibility of using South Walks House in Dorchester to increase capacity
Last updated 7th Oct 2021
Plans to reduce waiting times at Dorset County Hospital could involve former council offices in Dorchester.
Hospital bosses say they're talking to their partners in the community about what public assets are available to increase capacity.
They've confirmed to Greatest Hits Radio Dorset that using Dorset Council's South Walks House IS one of the options on the table.
The site has been earmarked for housing.
Nick Johnson, Director of Strategy, Transformation and Partnerships at Dorset County Hospital, said:
“Unfortunately, COVID-19 has impacted on our hospital waiting times so some patients are having to wait longer for appointments. We are exploring all our options to see how we might increase our capacity and reduce waiting times.
“Dorset County Hospital is committed to maximising the positive social value impact we have on our local communities, so we’re talking with our partners in the wider Dorset health and care system to see what public assets are available, including South Walks House, and how we might be able to use them.
“No final decisions have been made and we will be engaging with staff, patients and partners as plans progress.”
Cllr Tony Ferrari, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Assets & Property at Dorset Council, said:
“We've had many conversations with colleagues in the NHS throughout the pandemic about various ways in which the council may be able to help. This is one of the issues that has been raised with us but nothing has been agreed. Where we can help we will, and we continue to hold discussions on an ongoing basis.”