Health could have buyer for Castel Hospital

Wednesday 28th January 2009, 1:00PM GMT.

THE Castel Hospital site could be sold to pay for new mental health care facilities.

Health and Social Services minister Hunter Adam revealed yesterday that he had received a letter from a company that might be interested in buying the building and its 25 acres.

Deputy Adam said the proceeds could be used to pay back the States for money spent on a new mental health unit and new accommodation for those with learning disabilities.

The minister released detailed information about the two proposals in a presentation to deputies in time for the States debate on the topic this week.

His message was clear. ‘It will cost you more if the work is delayed,’ he said.

He explained that if the States chose not to spend on this now, it risked wasting millions sending patients off-island for treatment.