Eric Wright Construction has commenced the construction of the new multi-million pound Marine Lake Health and Wellbeing Centre in West Kirby in Wirral. The project is a partnership between Wirral Community Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust (WCHC), Marine Lake and Estuary Medical Practice and Age UK Wirral.
The occasion was marked with an official ‘ground-breaking’ ceremony hosted by WCHC and attended by local Councillor Jeff Green, Eric Wright Construction, the team from West Kirby Health Centre and local neighbours and residents.
Scheduled to complete next Spring, the project will see the relocation of Marine Lake Medical Practice and Estuary Medical Practice to the 2,037sq m new bespoke, state of the art facility. The project will include wellbeing gardens and a series of local art installations and exhibitions.
Once open, the centre will offer: extended hours and increased capacity; access to specialist health and care services including Community Cardiology; an expanded 0-19 Health and Wellbeing Service for local families and the opening of a new community space led by Age UK Wirral.
Speaking about the project, James Eager, Director at Eric Wright Construction, commented: “This project represents a new chapter in healthcare for the community of West Kirby. As a regional contractor, we pride ourselves in working with people in the local areas in which we operate to create developments that benefit the people who will actually use them.
Karen Howell, Chief Executive at WCHC, is clear that the project has people at its heart: “Bringing together primary and community care (including social care) in one place, as well as access to specialist health and care services, is invaluable for our local communities. We are delighted to soon be providing specialist community services including Community Cardiology in the heart of West Kirby, and extending our health and care offer across Wirral, ensuring people can receive care closer to home and avoid a visit to hospital.”
Dr Henry Aldwinckle, GP at Marine Lake and Estuary Medical Practice, said: “We are thrilled for the move to the new Health and Wellbeing Centre as it brings positive opportunities for our patients, including additional consultation rooms, a new minor surgery unit and access to a range of specialist health and care services. The team and I are looking forward to the relocation and what it will bring to our patients.”
Jamie Anderson, Chief Executive Age UK Wirral concluded: “The new community space will be a valuable asset for our local community. A social space to meet old and new friends alike in the café, to get involved in a programme of activities and access services from Age UK Wirral and partner organisations. The community space provides something for everyone.”
