A ONCE run down building has been transformed into a state of the art health centre thanks to a £1.8 million pound facelift.

The money was awarded to Cheshire Community Healthcare by the Government, after a successful bid to build and equip a new community healthcare facility in Wharton.

The site for the new Wharton Primary Healthcare Centre was chosen following a lengthy period of public consultation that focused on the location of, and transport links to, the proposed centre.

The clinic, on Crook Lane, houses a GP, pharmacy and various other health care facilities all of which will provide vital support for the local community.

Although the centre has already been in operation for more than six months it has never been officially opened, this was rectified last Friday, September 21, when Eddisbury MP Stephen O'Brien cut the ribbon.

Stephen O'Brien said: "I am delighted to have officially opened Wharton's new £1.8million Primary Healthcare Centre, which became operational earlier this year.

"This represents a major investment in the local community and enhances considerably the range and availability of health services here in the centre of Wharton."

He added: "This is a valued asset and service to the vibrant Wharton community, home to a large and significant number of the people who make up the Eddisbury constituency.

"Cheshire Community Healthcare has worked closely and consulted with the local community about a range of issues which they felt were important to them.

"The result is a first class new health centre."