LEIGH MP and Shadow Home Secretary Andy Burnham praised the new modern mental health facility being built in his constituency.

Five Boroughs Partnership NHS Foundation Trust is working in partnership with construction contractors Kier to build Atherleigh Park — a £40 million modern mental health hospital off Atherleigh Way.

Formerly Leigh East Amateur Rugby League ground, the 3.9-hectare site will be split in to two separate buildings providing services for adults suffering from mental ill health, as well as patients with dementia and memory conditions.

Mr Burnham was given a tour of the partially developed site and spoke to workers and Year Six students from neighbouring primary schools, Leigh Central and Leigh Sacred Heart, who were taking part in a bricklaying workshop.

On top of an increase in beds, the site will also have facilities to promote physical health and wellbeing, communal areas, a café, landscaped gardens and a nature trail.

It will also act as a community hub, providing space for use by other mental health and related community service providers including charities, voluntary groups and housing organisations.

The scheme is also supporting the local economy by employing local people and developing three apprentices.

Mr Burnham said: “Atherleigh Park is a major investment in how we look after people during the vulnerable moments of their lives.

"Mental ill health could affect any of us. We all live with high levels of stress and need this care in our community so I’m proud that 5 Boroughs Partnership is making this commitment to the people of Leigh and Wigan.

"With these 21st century facilities, we will truly be set up for the future.”

Bernard Pilkington, chair of Five Boroughs Partnership, said: “The buildings are really taking shape now and, walking around the site, you get a real sense of space and light – very different to what we have today. I’m excited to see it in action, making a positive difference to people’s lives.”

To follow the progress of the development, go to www.5boroughspartnership.nhs.uk/atherleighpark, follow @AtherleighPark on Instagram, or search for #AtherleighPark on Twitter.