Stormont Health Minister Michael McGimpsey (pictured) has announced a £117m capital investment package for services in the South Eastern Trust area, designed to improve delivery over the next three years.

This funding is part of a total planned spend of over £417m in capital over the next 10 years.

New developments and an upgrade of existing services will take place across a range of primary, secondary and community care areas to bring about major improvements in services to the public.

Speaking during a visit to the newly built £1.6m Ashgrove Intensive Support Unit at Ards Hospital, Michael McGimpsey said: "This new purpose built, specialist unit is an excellent example of how investment can make a real difference in individuals’ lives.

"They will have access to psychological and psychiatric services in a setting that is acceptable to both them and their families, and this will provide them with the opportunity for healing, growth and development."

Commenting on the planned 10 year investment for the Trust, the Minister said: "My announcement of £417.4m for the South Eastern Trust over the next ten years is another example of how I am investing in our health and social care services.

"This investment will include £190m to develop services at the Ulster Hospital. The funding will provide new ward accommodation, based on 100% single rooms, an Accident & Emergency department, imaging department, mortuary, a coronary care unit, pharmacy, a new entrance block and central support functions."

The Minister also outlined his commitment to Lagan Valley Hospital: "I am committed to the future provision of a range of key services at the hospital. The Trust is developing plans for a multi-million pound investment in the hospital which will provide additional theatre space as well as a new health and care centre on the hospital site.

"Funding will also be provided for new Health and Care Centres in Bangor, Ards and Dunmurry.

"This is an exciting new development for these three areas and is an important part of my vision for the future of healthcare services here. Health and Care Centres adopt a 'one stop shop' person-centred approach to healthcare, which aims to meet the needs of individual families in their local communities."

The Minister added: "I have worked with all the Health Boards and Trusts to identify key priorities for the next 10 years."

(KMcA)