Overdale Site: Demolition of Former Healthcare Buildings Completed

Officials have announced the completion of the demolition of previous healthcare buildings located at the Overdale site. The Government of Jersey stated that Jersey Demolition Contractors (JDC), responsible for the demolition work since December 2023, dismantled over 20 buildings and structures. This development occurs as progress continues towards establishing a new £710m acute hospital, which officials describe as the initial significant new building within the new healthcare facilities programme. The government indicated that construction for the new hospital is anticipated to commence in 2025. The new acute facility is projected to be finished by the close of 2028. According to the government, the upcoming hospital will feature an emergency department, critical care, services for women and children, both elective and emergency operating theatres, and all inpatient wards necessitating an overnight stay. Deputy Tom Binet, who serves as Minister for Health and Social Services, expressed his “very pleased” sentiment regarding the demolition’s completion. He stated: “Islanders have been long overdue modern healthcare facilities, and while the road to get to this stage has been long, we are now witnessing real, tangible progress.” Binet conveyed his confidence that States members would endorse the budget for the programme’s first phase during a budget debate scheduled to start on 26 November. He additionally expressed certainty that the planning committee would provide the essential approvals for the project. “With their support, we can finally look forward to a ‘spade in the ground’ on this long-awaited project next year,” Binet commented. Constable Andy Jehan, the Minister for Infrastructure, remarked that the clearing of the previous buildings has “cleared the way for a new chapter of healthcare facilities to be built at Overdale.” He added: “I look forward to construction commencing next year.”