A new permanent state-of-the-art facility for outpatients has opened at Leighton Hospital in Crewe.

Located near to the hospital's Main Entrance, the two-storey modular building, which has an internal floor space of just over 1,000sq m, is the new home to Audiology and Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) services.

This facility features three audiology testing booths, nine consulting rooms, an ENT treatment room, and an ENT minor operations room.

The creation of this new facility comes because of the presence of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) planks within the roof of the old outpatients department.

Additional work in the old department has allowed the Trust to create a new treatment suite that would be used by various outpatient services.

Space has also been created for future use should other hospital services need to move into the area on a temporarily or emergency basis.

The Board Senior Responsible Officer for Healthier Futures & Estates Redevelopment, Russ Favager, said: "This new facility is a fantastic addition to the hospital and will allow staff to provide high-quality care to patients in a modern environment.

"While our plans are on track to build a new Leighton Hospital, this is scheduled to open in 2033.

"That is why this investment in the outpatients facility also demonstrates the Trust's commitment to prioritising immediate patient care."

RAAC is a lightweight precast material, which was commonly used in UK public sector buildings between the 1950s and 1990s.

Regional Managing Director from main contractor Robertson Construction North West, Paul Coyle, said: "We have worked closely with the Trust over the last five years, safely delivering a programme of high-quality structural remediation and refurbishment works across its estate.

"The new outpatients building is the latest example, helping the Trust to maintain essential services for patients while providing a modern working environment for staff."

This new facility will be retained when the new Leighton Hospital opens.

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