Teams at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford) have celebrated passing a major milestone in redeveloping the Emergency Department (ED).

Phase one of the multi-million pound project is now complete, which has seen the department completely reshaped inside and out.

Internally, the new layout makes significant improvements, including eight new resuscitation bays for patients who are critically unwell, including one area where patients suspected of being an infection risk can be isolated.

It also brings a new entrance area, providing increased waiting capacity and improved clinical spaces for patients to receive a preliminary assessment of their condition. Another improvement is the creation of a tranquil bereavement suite, which provides families and loved ones with privacy and comfort.

Outside, five additional ambulance bays and a new road configuration will help ambulances drop off patient more quickly

The ED team at the RD&E (Wonford) see around 104,000 patients a year, an increase of 25% since major changes were last completed. The improvements will support delivery of high quality, safe and comfortable healthcare to people needing emergency healthcare now and in the future.

The work began in 2022 and has been phased to allow for the continued operation of the existing facilities.

Chris Tidman, Deputy Chief Executive Officer at the Royal Devon, said: “Acknowledging this milestone allows us to appreciate the work that’s been done and to recognise all the accommodations staff and patients have made while the work has been ongoing. Thank you all for your patience.”

Work has now begun on phase two, which will see the development of a bespoke children’s emergency department with paediatric bays and a separate reception and waiting area. This is the first of its kind at the Royal Devon.

“Coming to hospital as a child can be scary and with this dedicated space for children we hope to create a space that will help young people and their families feel comfortable and safe, helping us to provide the best care we can,. Said Christopher Crow, Divisional Director, who is leading the project.

This part of the project is being supported by the public through the Royal Devon Hospitals Charity Children’s ED appeal to raise £250,000. You can read more on the Charity’s website here.

Emergency Department services remain in high demand. We urge the public to only attend for serious injuries and life-threatening emergencies. If you have a medical problem please call 111, visit your local pharmacy or GP for advice, or you can go to our minor injury units or walk-in centre.