Noble's Hospital: Half-empty ward closure could save £250,000

Ward 20 is not physically attached to the main hospital building and is used for patients rehabilitation

The temporary closure of a half-empty ward at Noble's Hospital could save the Manx government about £250,000, the island's health minister has said.

The government confirmed managers at Noble's Hospital, near Douglas, were considering the temporary closure of ward 20 during the summer months.

Only 11 of the rehabilitation ward's 22 beds are currently occupied, a health department spokesman added.

Health Minister Howard Quayle MHK said the move could "enhance patient care."

The ward is not physically attached to the main hospital building and patients would he transferred to other wards within the complex.

Mr Quayle said: "When there is spare capacity in the system it makes sense to transfer patients and staff to the main building.

"The option would only be a temporary measure for four months, with potential savings of £250,000."