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Offering improved facilities for patients and staff, as well as a big boost to city centre footfall, the Eye Hospital has been moving over its services from the ageing Eye Infirmary in Queen Alexandra Road in phases with today, July 23, marking the completion of the move.
All clinical services, including the region's nationally-renowned Cataract Treatment Centre (CTC) and 24/7 Eye Emergency Department, are now available at the new site which overlooks Riverside Park.
The official name of Sunderland Specialist Eye Hospital reflects two centuries of specialist eye healthcare in Sunderland, with the very first infirmary opening in 1836 in High Street East.
For the old infirmary, a planning application has been made for dozens of new homes with the old hospital demolished, which you can read about here.
And here’s a look around the new site:
9. Same care in improved facilities
Councillor Chris Eynon, leader of Sunderland City Council, said the opening marked an important chapter in the transformation of Sunderland city centre. "Our residents deserve the best, and this - as we have seen today - is a world-class facility, that will deliver exceptional care to patients,” said the new leader. “As people from outside of Sunderland come to access this hospital, they will see our transforming city centre and know that this is a place of ambition and a fantastic place to live, work and play." | Sunderland Echo
10. One of two main entrances to the building
Facilities include: 24/7 Eye Emergency Department, Cataract Treatment Centre, Retina and Macular Unit, Surgical Theatres & Wards and Outpatient & Support Areas. | Sunderland Echo
11. Honouring the past
The ward is called Queen Alexandra Ward in honour of the former site | Sunderland Echo
12. Jigsaw piece of regeneration
The hospital joins existing buildings to open on Riverside, including The Beam, Maker & Faber, City Hall and the Riverside multistorey. | Sunderland Echo