Work starts on shopping centre's health hub revamp

The first floor of the shopping centre in Barnsley will be turned into a health and wellbeing hub

Work has started on transforming the first floor of a shopping centre in South Yorkshire into a health and wellbeing hub.

Barnsley Council said the former Wilko store at the Alhambra Shopping Centre is currently being revamped as part of its Health on the High Street initiative.

Eye specialists from Barnsley Hospital's Ophthalmology Services are expected to move into the premises once work is completed by the autumn.

Sir Steve Houghton, leader of Barnsley Council, said he wants to bring health services "into the heart of our town centre", adding that by 2028 the first floor would host a range of NHS services, mental health support and a gym.

He said: "Expanding the range of health and wellbeing services in the heart of our town centre is going to deliver even more efficient and effective services, hugely enhancing people's experiences and ultimately improving the lives of residents.

"I'm excited to see the first Barnsley Hospital services moving into the space later this year, making it easier for you to get vital health checks and scans, and can't wait for the space to continue growing its offer over the next few years."

The shopping centre was bought by the council in 2023 for £4.5m.

The Health on the High Street initiative started three years ago with the opening of the NHS Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) in The Glass Works, near the shopping centre.

South Yorkshire's mayor, Oliver Coppard, added the plans would give people "the chance to live happier, healthier lives".

He said: "Phase one of the Health on the High Street project has already been a huge success - improving waiting times and patient outcomes through the Community Diagnostic Centre.

"Phase two, that I'm proud to be supporting with over £60m of funding from the Mayoral Combined Authority, will improve and extend that impact, making a very real difference for the people of Barnsley and South Yorkshire."

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