Accrington Victoria Hospital

As part of the closure programme, the Trust made commitments to local people that it would retain clinical services in the town, ensure the rich history of Accy Vic was remembered and celebrated and, when the time came, engage the community in what would happen next to the site.

Chief Executive of ELHT Martin Hodgson said: “I know local people felt upset when we announced we were moving out of the building but I am pleased that we have been able to deliver on those promises we made at the time to keep services in Accrington, protect the buildings history and ensure that the community was able to get involved about what happened to the site next.

“In fact, most services were relocated only around a mile away and we have held an exhibition at Accrington Library recently where the historical artefacts were on display and the stories of patients and staff over time are captured and celebrated. It was really well received by local people including former employees from the hospital and thanks to Accrington Library for hosting it for us.

“The next phase is to work with key people and communities in the area to decide what happens next to this beloved site which commands such a key place in local history. I am delighted that Hyndburn Council and the local MP Sarah Smith are working with us on this – and I would encourage anyone who wants to get involved to come forward with ideas, suggestions and views over the coming weeks and months.”

As part of an initial engagement plan, a digital survey has been prepared to gauge initial views and ideas. This can be found here.

As part of the future planning, Hyndburn and Haslingden MP Sarah Smith will be leading some of the conversation with local Councillor and Cabinet member with responsibility for health and social care Melissa Fisher.

Sarah said: “It is hugely important that the community is able to inform and influence what happens next with this historic and iconic local building. Accy Vic is loved by so many people because of its history. That includes how it was originally built and developed using money from Accrington families and events such as Accrington Carnival to the memories of being born or treated there over the years.

“The Trust is clear it will work with the community to preserve this heritage and that includes the original facades of the building and the character of Accy Vic where possible. Please, get involved, share your ideas and suggestions and let’s work together to make sure this site provides a legacy for future generations too.”

Cllr Fisher added: “I live in Accrington and the closure of Accy Vic was devastating for local people. It has been such an important part of the community for so long. I am pleased to be part of the group that will help to determine what happens next here but I need the community to tell me what they think and want they want.

“The survey is just the first step – we will be holding events and asking people in popular places to give their views. When the time comes to make a decision on what next, I want it to be  informed on what people have told us they want. Please, come forward and have your say.”

Two events will be held to help understand what local people think about the future of the site including a workshop led by the MPs office and a market stall style drop in in Accrington Town Centre with Cllr Fisher. In addition, the group intend to be at Accrington Carnival to talk to people there too.

The Minor Injuries and X-ray departments have now relocated to:

 

Acorn Centre
421 Blackburn Rd
Accrington
BB5 1RT 

 

Opening hours are 8am - 8.30pm seven days a week and can be accessed by entering the carpark at the rear of the building and using the side entrance down the left-hand side of the building as you face the main entrance. 

As of Friday, 20 December 2024, all services have now relocated out of Accrington Victoria. 

The Trust announced in October 2024 that all services at Accrington Victoria would relocate as the building was in serious decay and no longer fit for purpose as a healthcare facility. You can see that announcement here. 

Alongside this, a commitment was made that the critical services within the building would remain within Accrington and since then, a phased and purposeful approach has been taken to relocate departments including the Minor Injuries Unit, X-ray, PWE GP team and outpatients department.

The full list of where services have moved to can be found below:

The Trust, with other partners in the community, will begin an engagement programme in early 2025 to understand how the building can be regenerated and protected for generations to come.