WORK to build the latest NHS Nightingale hospital is now officially underway.

Nightingale Exeter will provide a regional hospital for Devon, Cornwall and neighbouring counties supporting the existing hospital network.

NHS leaders in Devon say that they hope that Nightingale Exeter will not be needed but if or when it is, it will be ready.

As well as treating the sickest patients, Nightingale Exeter could also be used for those patients with less severe problems associated with COVID-19 – and for those who are recovering after a period in hospital.

Work to transform the former retail unit on Moor Lane, in the Sowton area of Exeter is expected to be completed by the middle/end of June.

A huge amount of work is needed to convert the 36,000 sq ft empty space into a fully functioning hospital – complete with 120 beds.

The military are helping with logistics for the build, working alongside contractors BAM Construct Ltd, who also built the NHS Nightingale Hospital in Harrogate. 

Rob Dyer, medical director of the Nightingale hospital, said: ‘We have brought together a strong team to deliver this latest addition to the NHS Nightingale hospital family.

‘In many ways the outlook is better than it was because of the amazing response to ‘lock-down’ in the Southwest.’

The hospital in Exeter is expected to be operational from June. Once it has opened it will be operated by the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust on behalf of all the hospitals in Devon and Cornwall.

Sarah James, chief nurse of NHS Nightingale Exeter, said: ‘Staff from across the region will join us to be part of a supportive and caring team who are working together to provide care for NHS Nightingale patients.

‘Every single clinician, manager and staff member will have an important role to play in what we expect to be a hugely valuable asset in our fight against Covid-19.’