Exclusive: Plans to build Jersey's new hospital at Overdale
ITV News can reveal plans are being developed to build Jersey's new hospital at Overdale on the edge of St Helier.
The plans would see part of the main building sunk into the valley which leads down to the inner road, to reduce the impact on the skyline.
Opposite the existing Overdale entrance is a field which has been earmarked for up to 80 affordable homes for health workers.
The George V Cottages housing development, operated by Andium Homes, would be demolished to make way for a new entrance, with a multi-storey car park built in the valley behind.
The project is being led by Assistant Chief Minister Chris Taylor who believes there is a majority of support within the Council of Ministers, and growing support among States Members.
His aim is to begin a process of evaluating 'three or four' sites as part of a formal due diligence process which he then expects to demonstrate the viability of Overdale.
A proposition to formally remove the existing hospital site at Gloucester Street in St Helier as the preferred site is due to be debated by politicians in a fortnight.
Constable Taylor expects the new hospital to cost less than the current project, which has a price tag of £466 million.
He believes the project could begin 'before the end of this year' if previous public and political opposition which has dogged other attempts to begin hospital construction are avoided. He told ITV News 'bad PR' was part of the problem in previous years.
Neighbours who live next door to the Overdale site have told ITV News they back the plans.
Hospital consultant Dr David Ng is pleased efforts to find a site other than next to the existing hospital are gathering momentum.
Earlier this month, a second planning application to build the new hospital next to the current one was rejected by the Environment Minister, Deputy John Young, following a planning inquiry. The Chief Minister, Senator John Le Fondre, said it would be 'prudent' to pause all work while options were considered.