The opening of the £41 million Worthing Integrated Health Centre has been delayed once again after traces of the potentially deadly Legionella bacterium were discovered in the heating system.
The state-of-the-art facility, built on the site of a former car park in Stoke Abbott Road, was scheduled to open in January 2024, but last-minute safety tests identified the bacteria, forcing further postponements.
The purpose-built healthcare facility, which has already faced multiple delays, was designed to house a GP practice, mental health services, dental care, community health services, and a pharmacy.
However, due to health concerns, only the pharmacy is currently operational while remediation work takes place.
A Worthing Borough Council spokesperson acknowledged the issue, stating that low levels of Legionella were detected in routine tests, a problem that is not uncommon in newly constructed buildings.
The council expects the problem to be resolved within weeks, allowing the centre to open fully soon.
Legionella bacteria, which thrives in stagnant or improperly maintained water systems, can lead to Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia.
Symptoms include fever, muscle pain, headaches, shortness of breath, and a persistent cough. Inhaling contaminated water droplets can be fatal, particularly for older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
Experts stress that while low levels of the bacteria are sometimes found in new water systems, proper flushing, disinfection, and maintenance are crucial to prevent outbreaks.
Originally budgeted at £34 million, the health centre’s costs have already escalated to £41 million, and further delays may add to the overall expense.
The extended timeline has caused frustration among residents, healthcare providers, and local officials, who have been awaiting the centre’s completion to improve medical services in the region.
The council remains optimistic that the issue will be resolved within weeks, allowing full healthcare services to begin operations.
Regular water system testing, disinfection procedures, and additional safety measures are being carried out to ensure the building meets health and safety standards before welcoming patients.
