Inpartnership proposes Salford health facility

A consortium led by Sigma Inpartnership and Salford City Council, funded by Royal Bank of Scotland, has unveiled plans for a 30,000 sq ft health and retail centre in Higher Broughton.

The joint venture, called Higher Broughton Partnership, also includes medical facilities expert, Level Health Care, and will build a £9m centre to incorporate three GP surgeries, a dental practice, pharmacy, optician and Tesco Express store.

The deal cements the fourth phase of the development in Higher Broughton, which has already seen the creation of 250 houses, a community centre and a school refurbishment.

Cllr John Merry, leader of Salford City Council, said: "It's great to see this project gathering momentum. The scheme will bring valuable services to the community as well as boosting employment opportunities for local people."

Graeme Hogg, director of Sigma Inpartnership, said: "The announcement represents a significant catalyst for ongoing development at this key site.

"With the right sector expertise and strong partnerships in place, we're on track to see work commence on site in spring 2012, subject to planning consent."

Sigma Inpartnership has similar local authority asset-backed partnerships with Liverpool City Council and Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council.