Thousands of pounds are to be sunk into a controversial Wickford psychiatric hospital even though it is just months from closure.

Runwell Hospital closes its doors in 2001 after a chequered history during which it has been dogged by controversy.

In 1995 patients' watchdog, the Basildon and Thurrock Community Health Council, condemned the 'appalling' conditions.

But impending closure has not stopped Southend Community Care Services NHS Trust, which runs the hospital, from making an eleventh hour bid to improve secure services facilities by investing nearly £2 million in a major refurbishment programme.

Explaining the trust's decision, spokesman Souzia Basit said: "We are spending the money because while we are still providing a service at Runwell we have to ensure that that service complies with health and safety legislation, even if it is about to close.

"If I had a relative in the hospital I know that, even though its closing down in two years, I would want them to be living in a safe environment in the intervening period.

"It has not been done before because we just didn't have the money. But we recently transferred from the North Thames region of the NHS Executive to the Eastern Region. They have a different policy and have made the funds available."

The new cash will be spent on improving conditions for patients, by introducing single bedrooms, en suite facilities, extra day areas, and separate male and female areas.

It will also allow the site to be made safer for residents by improving the condition of courtyards and pathways.

Work is due to begin shortly and should be complete by October.

The hospital is closing in line with government policy to treat the mentally ill in the community and its residents will be dispersed around the county.

Three nursing homes are to be built to accommodate the elderly patients, while acute patients are being transferred to Rochford Hospital.

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