A £29.3m mental health hospital for older adults in Walsall has reached a significant milestone in its build.

A water-tight ceremony has taken place at the site of the new and improved hospital, which is a tradition in the construction industry to mark the point when the building’s exterior has been completed and is protected against the elements.

Staff from Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust were joined by colleagues from the project team, including Kier Construction, Archus, and Gilling Dodd, who gathered to celebrate the important milestone.

The project includes the construction of two ground-floor wards with en-suite accommodation, flexible therapy space, and an outdoor garden area.

An artist’s impression of the new hospital, which is due to open this summer

As well as providing a modern, safe environment, the build also has a focus on energy-efficient design and will have a small number of electric car charge points, a first for the trust.

Jeremy Vanes, chair of Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are delighted to have reached this important milestone in the journey to move patients and services to the new and improved hospital.

“It is great to see our plans beginning to take shape and see the progress that has been made.

“This build is a significant investment in older adult mental health services in Walsall and will improve the care and experience for patients in hospital and we are looking forward to the final phase of the build and developing plans for when we are ready to welcome staff and patients safely on site.”

The hospital is due for completion in summer 2024.