A WORLD class diagnostic and treatment centre has been officially opened at Leigh Infirmary.

The Hanover Diagnostic and Treatment Centre is the largest recent single development on the site.

Developed by Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh (WWL) NHS Foundation Trust, the building houses the Leigh Endoscopy Department, Richmond Urology Unit, Women’s Healthcare Unit and a new Endoscope Re-processing Unit.

Chief executive Andrew Foster said: “NHS hospital staff in Wigan and Leigh achieve some of the best outcomes in the region for our patients and will continue to do so from this modern facility designed with the needs of patients in mind."

Leigh MP Andy Burnham cut the ribbon on Friday to officially open the building.

“It is absolutely essential that the people of our area have access to the very best that modern healthcare can provide,” he said.

"It was a special moment to open the new centre. It is a shining example of the NHS at its best and I am delighted that it is right here in Leigh.

"It was a real pleasure to meet all of the staff working in the new centre and to see their obvious pride in Leigh Infirmary. I would like to thank them for what they do and the board of our trust for making this important investment in both our hospital and our town. It sets Leigh Infirmary up for the 21st century and will improve the health of local people for decades to come."

The endoscopy unit enables the team to make faster diagnoses while the urology unit is a one-stop clinic to diagnose and treat patients with diseases of the urinary tract and the male reproductive system.

At the women’s healthcare unit gynaecology outpatient and specialist clinics can be provided side-by-side.

“The opening of this magnificent building marks the beginning of a new era for Leigh Infirmary and will ensure that patients have better access to improved health facilities and services for many years to come,” said Leigh Clr Keith Cunliffe.