TYLDESLEY'S state-of-the-art new clinic was officially opened last Friday.

After months of extensive work on major rebuilding and refurbishment the Poplar Street clinic was operational in February - a new and improved building over twice the size of the previous clinic providing modern healthcare facilities in a pleasant, comfortable environment.

In addition to providing existing services such as baby clinics, podiatry, dental surgery and speech and language therapy plus an expanded treatment room facility, the new centre also provides accommodation for two GP practices.

With the added bonus of a SureStart funded facility including a crche, community room and caf facility, parents and children under four will have access to a range of services bringing together health, childcare and family support.

More car parking spaces, a new main entrance, improved facilities for the disabled and a better working environment for staff are included in the package and security has been updated with CCTV and Access Control systems.

Lynn Liptrot, Chairman of Ashton, Leigh and Wigan Primary Care Trust, said: "This is exciting news for Tyldesley and the surrounding area.

"The new building will now mean local people will be able to receive first class treatment and services delivered in first class premises using first class equipment. And this is just the start. Over the coming months and years similar schemes and projects will be developed in various parts of the Borough as part of our NHS LIFT project."

Wigan Council Leader, Lord Smith, said: "Thanks to the SureStart scheme, services for children will be provided as an integral part of the community services, and this will make it more convenient for parents to use. It's an approach the government is very keen on and it's good to see the public services in Wigan are leading the way."