THE newly refurbished Derwent Centre for patients with acute mental illness was officially opened by Harlow Council chairman Maggie Hulcoop and Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust chairman Professor Sheila Salmon.

The Derwent Centre, on the Princess Alexandrta Hospital site, has undergone a major refurbishment which was started in 2013 by the former North Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust.

The building has two wards, Stort Ward and Chelmer, which have transformed into a modern inpatient facility that is suitable for the needs of patients.

There is also a new reception area, new entrance, hub and indoor garden.

The refurbishment is part of the trust’s transformation plans to continually improve and develop facilities and environments that will enhance the patient experience.