£14.2m Emergency Department redevelopment opens at Torbay Hospital

The final phase of a £14.2 million redevelopment of the Emergency Department at Torbay Hospital has been completed, marking a major milestone for urgent and emergency care services across South Devon.

The newly transformed department was officially opened by the Lord-Lieutenant for Devon on behalf of His Majesty The King, celebrating the completion of a project that has been delivered in carefully planned stages to allow emergency services to continue operating throughout the construction period.

The redevelopment has modernised the hospital's Emergency Department, creating improved facilities for both patients and staff. The project has focused on enhancing patient flow, privacy and dignity, while expanding clinical areas to support the assessment and treatment of people requiring urgent and emergency care.

New dedicated zones have been introduced to cater for different patient needs, alongside upgraded equipment and improved staff facilities. Hospital leaders say the changes will help create a safer, more efficient and more compassionate environment for care.

Dr Kate Lissett, Chief Medical Officer at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, described the opening as a significant moment for both the organisation and the local community.

“This is a hugely important moment for our organisation and the communities we serve,” she said.

“Our Emergency Department team delivers exceptional care every day, often under significant pressure, and this investment gives them a modern environment that truly supports high quality care.

“For patients, the new department means faster assessment and a more dignified experience at what can often be a stressful time. We’re incredibly proud to have reached this stage.”

Staff working within the department say the improvements are already having a positive impact on patient care and day-to-day operations.

Amy Jones, Emergency Medicine Consultant, said the redesigned layout enables patients to be assessed and treated more quickly, while dedicated treatment areas allow for more personalised care.

“The new environment is already making a real difference,” she said. “The layout supports us in assessing and treating patients more quickly, and the dedicated areas mean we can provide more personalised care for patients.

“It’s also a much better place to work. The improvements support how we work as a team and help us to deliver the standards of care our patients deserve.”

Dr Lissett also thanked patients, visitors and staff for their patience throughout the redevelopment programme.

“We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to our patients, visitors and colleagues for their understanding and support during the redevelopment,” she said. “We know this hasn’t always been easy, and we’re incredibly grateful for the patience and care shown by everyone involved.”

The official opening ceremony recognised not only the completion of the building work but also the efforts of staff, contractors and project teams who helped deliver the major investment while maintaining emergency services for the community.

Hospital leaders say the redevelopment will help ensure the Emergency Department is better equipped to meet the growing healthcare needs of local residents for years to come.