A MULTI-MILLION pound project to develop the UK's first-of-its kind medical science college in Bolton is back on track after being put on hold during the pandemic.
Bolton College of Medical Sciences (BCMS) is a proposed state-of-the-art centre at Royal Bolton Hospital providing training and qualifications for those looking for careers in the medical professions, while opening up opportunities for hospital staff to further their careers.
The centre, once opened, will make Bolton a go to destination for aspiring and practising professionals in the field, with its world-class clinical health and care training with cutting-edge technology providing simulation suites, MRI scanning, radiology, surgical and acute care environments.
CGI images of Bolton College of Medical Sciences.
The £40m project — a joint venture between the University of Bolton, Bolton College, Bolton NHS Foundation Trust and Bolton Council — is now at its 'final stage funding bid' and the people of Bolton are being urged to have their say on the ambitious plans to help secure the finance needed.
When open, the facility is expected to bring £150m to the local economy.
BCMS will have the capacity to teach 3,000 students a year, with around 1,000 apprentices in a range of health and social care roles — with the first intake expected in 2023.
Annette Walker, finance director at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust said: “We’re looking forward to working with our partners to bring this fantastic facility to Bolton.
“Once open, the centre will help us train and develop both the future and our existing workforce right here on the Royal Bolton Hospital site, and will support us to continue providing high quality healthcare for all.
“We’re really keen to hear views from the community and encourage people to have their say.”
CGI images of Bolton College of Medical Sciences.
Dr Zubair Hanslot, Provost of the University of Bolton, added: “As a proud Boltonian, I take personal pleasure in being involved in this extremely exciting project which has the potential to transform the fortunes of young people and bring further investment and prosperity to the area.
“BCMS will help to create and sustain rewarding careers in the clinical and medical health and social care sectors and provide a platform for further educational developments across the town. We really value the perspective of the wider community on the impact this facility could have, which is why we’re hosting this consultation”.
Prof John Lumley of Bolton University said: "Bolton College of Medical Sciences is vital as a platform for the University of Bolton as it seeks approval for an Undergraduate Medical School at the University of Bolton.”
Planning permission was granted in June 2019 for the designs.
The 7,600 sq m site is to be located at the Bolton NHS Trust hospital site in Farnworth. BCMS is expected to welcome its first intake in early 2023.
Views are being sought on the economic and cultural impact of BCMS on Bolton’s diverse community, including how it will help the town to create and sustain careers in clinical and medical healthcare and lead to an improved level of care.
The community consultation starts today and runs until Wednesday, June 2. Fill in the short questionnaire online at: https://investinbolton.com/bolton-college-of-medical-sciences/
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