“ We can now say to people that if they want to see what the 21st century NHS looks like they should come to Barnsley. Outside London, Barnsley is the first to open these fantastic new buildings and they are a tribute to all those involved in making them happen.”

With its innovative use of space and design The Goldthorpe Centre, completed on 22nd November 2004, achieves more than simply replacing existing facilities; instead it also provides a focal point for the community as well as offering a selection of complimentary public and private services.

Consultation and engagement with stakeholders, throughout all phases of the development process, focused on understanding and integrating local needs and priorities. As such an extensive range of health and social care facilities, as well as an eight-GP surgery, are housed within the building therefore providing improved services to cater for the growing needs of patients in this part of Barnsley.

The centre, located on the site previously occupied by the Dearne Town Hall, was completed on time and to budget within a 46-week contract period - this included demolition of the Town Hall. Affordability and value for money has been enhanced through the development of multi-purpose rooms and the attraction of a private sector tenant as third party revenue provider.

One of the first three of a series of developments planned for Barnsley, the project aims to enhance the health and well-being of patients and staff, whilst at the same time being flexible and adaptable in order to meet the future changing demands of community-based health and social care.