DEVELOPMENT of the new Altrincham Hospital took a step forward last week with an official ‘topping out ceremony’.


Cheshire-based company, Pochin Construction Ltd, Pochin was appointed to deliver the £17m development by new owner Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (CMFT) and developer Citybranch.


The project is expected to reach its final completion in winter 2014/15, but the ceremony was held to celebrate the building reaching its highest point and the development entering into its final stages.


The event, held on May 7, was attended by chairman of the hospital trust Peter Mount, Trafford councillors and senior hospital staff.


Hospital champions representing different parts of the hospital and selected members of the public were also given private guided tours of the site later that evening.


Pochin hopes the development will boost healthcare in the borough, as well as driving significant regeneration in Altrincham town centre.


Jonathan Pochin, managing director of Pochin Construction Ltd, said: “We are excited to be entering the final stages of this project.


“It is rewarding to know that the modern, state-of-the-art facility will benefit both patients and staff whilst encouraging further development in the town centre.”


Peter Mount, chairman of CMFT, said: “The new hospital in Altrincham will provide a modern, high quality environment for a wide range of clinical services that will be of great benefit to local people.


“We are delighted that the new development is making such good progress and we look forward to its completion and opening next year.”