In early February, a significant investment was announced for Wantage Community Hospital, with nearly £1 million allocated for refurbishments to the hospital’s ground floor. This initiative is anticipated to enhance the hospital’s capacity to offer more clinic-based services for both physical healthcare and mental health.
The investment programme was collaboratively agreed upon by Wantage Town Council, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxfordshire County Council, and the Vale of White Horse District Council. A public meeting was held on February 27 at Silver Band Hall to update residents on the project’s progress, including the expected timeline. The meeting saw approximately 40 attendees and was described as “very positive and engaging.”
The design phase is set to conclude in early March, followed by the submission of a Community Infrastructure Levy to the Vale of White Horse District Council in June. This step is crucial for appointing the contractor who will undertake the refurbishment. Subject to funding approval, the renovation is anticipated to commence in the summer, with completion targeted for the end of September and operational use beginning mid-October.
Olly Glover, MP for Didcot and Wantage, expressed his support for the investment aimed at enhancing the hospital’s outpatient facilities. Existing services such as audiology, children’s integrated therapy, and learning disabilities service are set to continue. Potential new services and expansions are being considered across various health sectors, possibly expanding the hospital’s offerings significantly.
Negotiations with Oxford Health Charity are underway to incorporate community-inspired artwork within the refurbished space, with efforts to identify local artists for this work. In addition, collaborations are ongoing with the Oxfordshire County Council, Wantage Town Council, and the Vale of White Horse District Council to develop sustainable travel plans for better accessibility to the hospital, potentially including local community buses.
County Councillor Jane Hanna OBE praised the efforts, emphasizing the benefits residents are already enjoying and anticipating further service expansions by October. She remarked on the collaborative efforts of local leaders and the community in enhancing the hospital’s capabilities and moving towards a more integrated healthcare approach.
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