TODAY we get a glimpse at how the long-awaited new health centre for Horwich could look.
It is three years since the concept was announced and — and since then, one of the three practices combining to move into the centre, has withdrawn from the project.
There is still plenty of work do to and next month, the two remaining surgeries — Bolton Community Practice and Pike View — will put forward their business case for the centre.
The plans will include room to expand should another GP want to join them.
If the CCG is happy with the business proposal, a planning application will be drawn up and could be submitted in the new year. Once planning permission is granted, the tendering process will begin in February to secure a contractor for the site.
If everything goes smoothly, building work could begin in July.
The first phase of the centre will be the community services in a patient-friendly building which will make it easier for patients to be treated by different services simultaneously.
It will also include a GP training hub to create the doctors of the future.
Parking is always an issue at public buildings and it is hoped the 173 spaces planned will accommodate patients and staff.
Residents have raised concerns about parking and traffic which will hopefully be allayed and give them a new, hi-tech health centre for years to come.
