Friary Community Hospital’s inpatient ward will be temporarily closed for up to six weeks next year to enable a new lift to be installed.
University Hospitals Tees and NHS Property Services have announced that the Richmond hospital’s Victoria Ward will be temporarily closed from Monday 27 April 2026 to enable essential lift replacement works to be safely carried out.
During this time, most of the beds from Victoria Ward will be temporarily moved to the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton.
There have been several issues reported with the lift over recent years which, due its age, is now becoming quite challenging to repair.
Long term benefits
James Dunbar, community services director for University Hospitals Tees, said: “The age and unreliability of the lift to Victoria Ward has been a major concern for several years. When it breaks it is difficult to repair.
“Replacing it will make it safer for patients, visitors and staff. During the closure the ward staff will be redeployed so they can continue the excellent care they provide for the people of Richmondshire.”
Mark Bradley, place director for North Yorkshire, NHS Humber and North Yorkshire ICB, added: “This temporary disruption will bring long term benefits.
“Replacing the lift and improving the ward environment will enhance safety, reliability and patient experience, helping our teams deliver consistently high-quality care for the people of Richmondshire.”