Jersey's government set to vote on £804 million budget for new hospital

  • Video report by ITV Channel's Iain McBride

Jersey's States Assembly will vote on the budget and level of borrowing needed for the new hospital at this week's sitting.

Jersey's government has put forward a budget of £804m with £756m being borrowed.

However, the Future Hospital Review Panel wants the budget cut to £550m and for borrowing to be capped at £400m.

Protestors gathered outside the States on Tuesday (5 October) to show their frustrations on the governments spending plan for the new hospital.

Nurses past and present have also weighed in saying that a £800 million facility is not needed for an island this size.

The height and size of the proposed hospital were reduced in new designs unveiled last month.

An aerial view of Jersey's new hospital under the third stage of the plans.

The project's lead, Senator Lyndon Farnham says the changes will ensure the project comes within its £804m budget, which some argue is far too excessive.

Despite changes in the design, the Future Hospital Review Panel has made nine recommendations; which includes carrying out a robust option appraisal and proving value for money if the government progresses to a Full Business Case.

Senator Kristina Moore, who leads the panel, says the project has 'ballooned'.