The Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust has acknowledged significant public interest and speculation surrounding the Tower Block at Torbay Hospital. The trust emphasised that the safety of patients, staff, and visitors remains its highest priority. Fire safety risks within the Tower Block have been recognised and actively managed for many years through various measures, including staff training, evacuation planning, fire safety improvements, and ongoing investment, in collaboration with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and other agencies.
Yesterday, the trust confirmed receipt of a Fire Enforcement Notice concerning evacuation arrangements on the upper floors of the Tower Block. It is working closely with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service to meet the notice's requirements and enhance these arrangements. Additionally, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) recently inspected surgery services within the block and proposed regulatory action regarding fire safety process oversight. The trust is engaging constructively with the CQC and reserves the right to appeal.
In response, the trust is exploring options to improve evacuation capabilities and future fire safety. These considerations include reviewing occupancy levels, patient placement, staffing, and the potential relocation of some services within the hospital estate. While acknowledging public discussions about options involving the Heatherington Unit and Horizon Centre facilities, the trust clarified that it is not closing the Tower Block, the Heatherington Unit, or Torbay Hospital. Access to services for the community will not be reduced, nor will patients be sent out of area due to these arrangements.
The trust is developing and testing potential options with clinical and operational colleagues, and engaging with affected teams to ensure any proposals are safe, practical, and maintain high-quality patient care. It urged the public not to draw conclusions from unconfirmed reports or partial information, promising further details once plans are agreed with the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. Information will continue to be shared via the 'Listening to our communities' page and social media channels.
