Ramsey hospital maintenance costs soar to £620,000 as services reopen following building issues
Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital has undergone significant maintenance work over the past year, with costs for repairs and upkeep reaching £620,000 in the 2025/26 financial year alone. The dramatic increase reveals the extent of structural and facility challenges discovered at the popular healthcare facility, which serves residents and visitors across the Isle of Man's north.
The hospital's troubles began when 'significant issues' with the building were uncovered during routine pest control work on Martin Ward last year. Following these discoveries, several key services were relocated from the site, leaving locals and tourists concerned about healthcare access in the area.
The good news for the community is that the Minor Injuries Unit is set to reopen on Monday, 18 May, marking an important milestone in the hospital's recovery. This facility handles everything from sprains and minor fractures to burns and minor infections — essential services for both residents and visitors exploring Ramsey's attractions.
The Department of Infrastructure's cost breakdown reveals a steep jump in maintenance spending compared to previous years, rising from tens of thousands in 2024/25 to £620,000 in 2025/26. According to DOI Minister Tim Crookall, the substantial increase reflects urgent work that could only be completed while affected areas remained closed — work that wouldn't normally be accessible during regular hospital operations.
The figures don't include all rechargeable work elements covered by Manx Care, nor do they account for spending incurred directly by Manx Care itself, so the true cost of bringing the facility back to standard may be higher still.
Source: Read full article on ManxRadio