Work starts on new brain injury therapy facilities

Therapy facilities for adults recovering from brain injuries are to be significantly expanded.

Work has started on building new wards, a rehabilitation centre, bungalows, a café and occupation therapy rooms at the Avalon Centre, near Hindle Way, in Swindon.

It already has a 20-bed facility providing rehabilitation services to adults who have suffered an acquired brain injury.

The company's application said the development would allow patients to "stay on site longer" as they "improve and progress through to the different levels of rehabilitation".

The bungalows will feature their own enclosed rear gardens and will be the last step in the whole rehabilitation process, the Local Democracy Reporting Service was told.

The application also explained how the additional buildings on the site would be arranged to promote a ‘campus’ feel, framing areas of landscaping for communal use.

A spokesperson from the therapy centre said using the space would allow it to offer much more "integrated therapy".

“The services offered at The Avalon Centre are much needed for people who have been left with unwanted behaviours and complex needs," they said.

"Patients will also be able to stay on site longer as they improve and progress through to the different levels of rehabilitation."

Construction is now under way on site after the plan was signed off as appropriate by Swindon Borough Council planners last week.

The initial phase of the work, clearing the site and getting in all the ground-level infrastructure, such as drainage and sewers and the ground floors of the buildings is expected to take 15 weeks.

Follow BBC Wiltshire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.