New mental health facility nears completion after heavy delays

Tuesday 04 July 2023

Repeatedly delayed works to redevelop Clinique Pinel in St. Saviour are due to be completed at the end of July, according to the Health Minister.

Deputy Karen Wilson said that, once finished, the revamped mental health facility will be subject to a "snagging" period as staff decorate and prepare the site before it replaces the service at Orchard House the following month.

Launched in 2020 following a critical mental health service review, the £7.3m project was initially due for completion at the end of January 2022, but has been pushed back several times.

The Government has previously cited labour shortages and bad weather as some of the reasons why the works, which will provide 26 new ensuite bedrooms and other facilities, have been delayed.

In a recent letter sent to the Health and Social Security Panel, Deputy Wilson gave an update on the facility's progress.

She said: "The building works to refurbish Clinique Pinel in order to relocate Orchard House is due to be completed at the end of July. This includes the development of the new intensive care area and the Article 36 suite. It is anticipated that once the completed building is handed back to the service, there will be a period of snagging / cosmetic decoration and some preparation for staff to work within the new clinical area."

Pictured: Health Minister Karen Wilson.

She continued: "We therefore currently anticipate – subject to any further delays - that Orchard House will transfer to the refurbished building towards the end of August, and the Article 36 suite and new Mental Health Tribunal Suite will become operational at that time.

"Work is currently underway with service user groups to prepare for the move and seek their engagement in the planned decoration of the ward."