BUDLEIGH Salterton hospital is to close for up to four weeks while deep cleaning and essential maintenance is carried out.

BUDLEIGH Salterton hospital is to close for up to four weeks while deep cleaning and essential maintenance is carried out.

The move is part of a rolling programme developed by NHS Devon to fight infections and improve conditions for patients.

The work is not expected to affect outpatient services, including specialist clinics.

Cleaning maintenance and the re-flooring of main corridor takes place next Monday, October 26.

The hospital is due to reopen by November 21 at the latest, health officials have said.

To compensate for the temporary closure while the work is being carried out, beds have been made available in other east Devon community hospitals, including Exmouth.

Budleigh hospital's stroke rehabilitation unit will be temporarily moved to Sidmouth hospital, where it will and continue to accept patients transferred from the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital.

NHS chiefs said they would do everything possible to speed up the process and will re-open beds at an earlier date.

Maggie Gordon, health and care manager at Budleigh Salterton and Exmouth hospitals, said: "The improvements programme has been planned to ensure minimum disruption to patients.

"It will make it easier for maintenance and cleaning staff to carry out their work and this will improve patient experience."

The NHS said the planned work will:

* Meet national standards for better health - including prevention of hospital-acquired infections, safe use of medical devices and handling of clinical waste.

* Replace the floor in the main corridor and nurses' station, which has become damaged through wear.

* Allow the upgrade of buildings, facilities and equipment.

* Improve facilities to enhance privacy and dignity of patients.