First look at new Sussex hospital where building work is under way

The 54-bed hospital in Mount View Street, Bexhill, called Combe Valley, is set to open next year.

It will provide modern, high-quality care for people who may be experiencing serious mental health problems, emotional crises, or severe distress which cannot be treated in the community.

The facilities will replace outdated dormitory accommodation at the Department of Psychiatry - currently based at Eastbourne District General Hospital - with a modern and improved therapeutic environment, including individual bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, for patients from across Sussex.

The hospital’s name Combe Valley was chosen by staff and patients recently.

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Dr Jane Padmore, Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (SPFT) chief executive who is a registered mental health nurse and has worked in mental health and learning disability services since 1990 was at the naming ceremony.

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She said: "This is the largest development that we, as a trust, have undertaken for many years. Not only will Combe Valley provide a safe, therapeutic environment for the patients coming through our doors, but also give our staff a fantastic place to work.

"Thanks to our close working with service users and staff, we are confident that by next year we will have modern, high-quality facilities which will serve the people of East Sussex and beyond for a long time to come."

Dr Jane Padmore, second from left, celebrated the progress (Image: Sussex Partnership)

Stephen Lightfoot, chairman of NHS Sussex Stephen Lightfoot added: “This is an exciting day for all partners in the Sussex health and care system, and especially for those who work so hard in our mental health services. 

“This new hospital is a key part of the mental health improvements that our Sussex health and care system is making to implement our integrated care strategy.

“Supporting people when they need mental health support and care is one of our key priorities and it is clear that Combe Valley Hospital will play a huge role in helping us achieve our ambitions in this area by delivering better mental health services and essential support to people when they need it most.”