Halton Hospital celebrates 50 years of caring for its communities

Halton Hospital is celebrating 50 years of caring for generations of people across Runcorn, Widnes and the surrounding communities.

The hospital first opened its doors on 21 September 1976, initially providing outpatient and day-patient services, and it hasn’t stopped treating people since. 

From the expansion of inpatient services in the 1980s to the development of new theatres, diagnostic facilities, and specialist services, over the past 5 decades Halton Hospital has continued to grow and develop services to meet the needs of the communities it serves.

Today, the hospital is focused on elective and diagnostic care and has seen significant investment in its facilities, including the opening of a £9.2 million theatre redevelopment in 2024 and the £11 million Warrington and Halton Diagnostics Centre in 2025, which brought new MRI and CT services to the site.

Over the years the site has marked momentous occasions, from welcoming Girls Aloud star Nicola Roberts to open a new operating theatre in 2006 to treating the one millionth patient in Cheshire and Merseyside at a community diagnostic centre in 2025.

Alongside its clinical services, the hospital has also been supported by a strong community of staff, volunteers and local organisations. Radio Halton, which was established by volunteers in 1986, continues to broadcast from the hospital today, while the Delamere Support and Information Centre provides advice and support to more than 2,000 people affected by cancer each year.

Nik Khashu, chief executive at North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust, said: “For 50 years, Halton Hospital has been at the heart of healthcare for people across Runcorn, Widnes and the surrounding communities.

“While the services and buildings have changed considerably since 1976, what has remained constant is the commitment of our staff to providing the best possible care for local people.

“This anniversary is an opportunity to recognise and thank everyone who has played a part in the hospital’s story, from our staff and volunteers to our patients, families and community supporters. As we celebrate these achievements, we also look forward to future developments and continuing to provide high-quality care for the communities we serve.”

One member of staff who has seen first-hand how the hospital has changed is ward manager Bev Caine who will also celebrate 50 years’ service at the trust next year. Bev said: “Halton Hospital has changed so much over the years, but the thing that stands out is the people. There is a real sense of community here, and staff care deeply about the patients and families they look after.

“It is lovely to be part of the hospital’s 50th anniversary and to celebrate everything that has been achieved over the years. There are so many stories connected to this hospital, and I think it is important that we take a moment to recognise the people who have helped make it what it is today.”

As part of the 50th anniversary celebrations, the trust is inviting patients, families and members of the local community to share their own memories, stories or messages of thanks.

If you would like to share a story or thank the staff at Halton Hospital please get in touch with the Communications Team at ncm.communications@nhs.net.

The trust will be sharing stories and milestones from the hospital’s history throughout the anniversary, celebrating the people and services that have helped shape Halton Hospital over the past 50 years.