A healthy lift

A MULTI-MILLION-pound scheme to bring new super-health centres to Werneth and Shaw & Crompton have moved a step closer.

Plans for the two state-of-the-art buildings have been submitted to Oldham Council, with officials expected to reach a decision in early September.

If the proposals get the green light, work is scheduled to begin off Westway, Shaw; and Featherstall Road South, Werneth; early next year, with completion in spring, 2011.

Health bosses say it means the people of Werneth and Shaw & Crompton will get the benefit of not only a first-class building, but of top-class health services.

Shauna Dixon, director of clinical leadership at Oldham’s Primary Care Trust — NHS Oldham, said: “Not only are we looking at modernising and improving health centres, but also the services that are provided within them.”

Neil Charlesworth, is general manager of Community First Oldham, which is building a number of integrated health and neighbourhood centres across Oldham. He said: “We are very excited to be at the stage where the local community can see the plans for what will be two fantastic new community facilities for the Shaw & Crompton and Werneth areas.”

The super health centres are part of the borough’s £100 million Local Improvement Finance Trust (LIFT) programme — which is investing millions of pounds in breathing new life into Oldham’s crumbling health centres.

Moorside and Glodwick have already got new health centres up and running under the scheme, and its flagship development, Oldham Integrated Care Centre, will open in the town centre next to the main bus station later this year.

Chadderton’s new Well-Being Centre is due to open at the end of October, replacing the old swimming baths, leisure centre and library.

And Royton’s Health and Well-being Centre is well under way.

New health centres are also planned for Fitton Hill and the Saddleworth area.