Early works have started to make way for a new health and wellbeing centre in Hornchurch.
The St George’s Health and Wellbeing Hub will bring together a range of health, social care and community services under one roof within a brand-new, purpose-built premises.
Works have now begun on the proposed construction site, off Suttons Lane, in readiness for final government approval for the new centre which is expected in the coming weeks. Contractors are currently carrying out clearance works including site surveys and other minor works, and parts of the old St George’s Hospital building will also be demolished.
Health and care partners across north east London have been working together for a number of years to design the hub, which secured detailed planning approval this year.
The centre will give people in Havering and its neighbouring boroughs easy access to a combination of primary care, mental health and prevention services, along with some early diagnostic services for cancer.
Zina Etheridge, Chief Executive Officer at North East London Health and Care Partnership, said: “The start of clearance and demolition work on site marks a significant milestone for the project after several years of planning. Once we receive final approval from the government, the main building work on the hub will get under way which will be really exciting.
“When it’s complete, the hub will provide a range of vital services to support people across Havering and neighbouring boroughs now and for many years to come.”
Earlier this year, a 12-week public engagement programme drew a positive response with feedback showing there was overwhelming support for the project among local people.
The site will also include provision for local voluntary and community groups, with facilities such as an community café, multi-purpose education and meeting spaces, as well as a sensory, dementia-friendly communal garden.
The hub is scheduled to complete by March 2024. More information about the project is available on the NHS NELFT Foundation Trust website.
Who Are The North East London Health and Care Partnership?
NEL HCP is the integrated care system in north east London, bringing together NHS organisations, local authorities and community and voluntary organisations with local people to support them to live healthier, happier lives. Working in partnership, we aim to provide better health and care outcomes for our population of over two million people across Barking and Dagenham, Havering, Newham, Redbridge, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest, Hackney and the City of London. For more information on the partnership and its work, please visit the NEL HCP website.
