Building work has finally started on a new doctors’ surgery on the site of a former hospital in Swindon.
Developers have laid the first bricks on the grounds of the old Princess Margaret Hospital, in Swindon’s Old Town.
The new £1.3m healthcare centre is being built by construction company Morgan Ashurst, and will include a pharmacy within the building.
The surgery is due to open in March 2008, and will serve people living in the nearby Angel Ridge housing development.
A company spokesman said: “It’s always an exciting time on site when work begins.
“We’re thrilled to have been awarded this project, and with considerable expertise in the health sector, I’m confident we will provide local people in Swindon with an excellent new healthcare centre.
“The development is ideally placed to serve the growing population in this area, and provides two amenities under one roof.
“We hope to complete the project with the minimum amount of disruption caused to local residents.”
The casualty department at the Princess Margaret Hospital closed on 3 December, 2002, and all patients were transferred to The Great Western Hospital in Marlborough Road.
The ageing site was closed due to rising maintenance costs and outdated facilities after the number of people living in the catchment area doubled from 170,000 to 340,000.
Copyright © PA Business 2007
