The NHS trust responsible for running Bury’s emergency department say extension work on the building is "progressing well".

Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Fairfield General Hospital, announced plans to expand facilities at its A&E department in March last year.

Expansion works, which are taking place over a two-year period, include plans for a new patient transfer area for ambulance, rapid assessment bays, and an increase in the number of resuscitation unit.

The works will also see the addition of more major injury cubicles and mental health suites.

Bury Times: The Fairfield General entrance, pictured last year, with a temporary isolation tentThe Fairfield General entrance, pictured last year, with a temporary isolation tent (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesperson for the trust says work on the expansion of the A&E department is “progressing well".

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They added that an expanded waiting area will be completed by the end of February ahead of ongoing work to refurbish more of its facilities.

Previous reports suggest the new facility will cost £2.8m and will treat around 30,000 patients per year, up from the current 17,000 urgent care patients.

The current A&E has previously been described as small and overcrowded with an improved facility set to alleviate pressure.

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The trust has confirmed the A&E department will remain open during the work.

Chief officer of Northern Care Alliance's Bury Care Organisation, Joanna Fawcus, said: “We would like to thank everyone for their support whilst this work is ongoing.

“It is important to emphasise though that our A&E department is and will remain open for patients who have life threatening illnesses or accidents.

"Every effort is being made to ensure minimal disruption to patients and visitors.”

Patients are reminded to make sure they only go to the A&E if they need to.

A&E departments care for patients who have life-threatening illnesses or accidents.

For non-life threatening conditions, people should continue to first contact NHS 111 online or call the NHS 111 helpline.

In a medical or mental health emergency where someone is seriously ill, injured or their life is at risk, call 999.