A RE-DESIGNED mental health ward will be officially opened next week at Kidderminster Hospital.

The former D2 older adult mental health ward will be renamed Witley following a £185,000 Kings Fund Project, which began in November 2004, to make it more pleasant for patients and staff.

The team which came up with the new design consisted of two nurses, a resident artist and an estates project officer, as well as a representative of patients.

They took into account all aspects of effective design and the impact it has on the wellbeing of patients, staff and visitors, including lighting, colour, flooring and art.

John Calvert, chairman of the Worcestershire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, which is in charge of the ward, said the team had a done a good job.

He said: "I congratulate the project team for creating a contemporary and open environment that is bright, attractive and therapeutic in design.

"This is a fine example of involvement between the trust, the King's Fund, staff, patients and local people. Such improvements will, I am sure, have a positive impact on the outcomes for patients and carers and the working environment for our staff."

Mr Calvert will formally conduct the opening ceremony on Friday, May 18.