A MAJOR project to future-proof an 'extraordinary' Oxford hospice has come to fruition after years of planning.

Sobell House Hospice in Headington has unveiled its £4.3m expansion, almost two years after work on the two-storey building began.

The new state-of-the-art Sobell Clinic and Garden Annex has grown from the hospice's former garden, in the grounds of the Churchill Hospital, and officially opened this week.

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Sir Jonathan Montgomery, chair of Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "Anyone who has come into contact with Sobell House and its work will know what an extraordinary place it is.

"The hospice is a much-loved part of the Oxfordshire community, and this development ensures we are able to provide a modern service that our patients require."

Sir Jonathan, who officially opened the building on Monday, described the hospice's provision as 'outstanding'.

Outpatients can use the new clinic for specialist care, including lymphoedema treatment, helping them to manage life-limiting conditions while living at home.

The annex houses a six-patient ward designed to be dementia-friendly, with design and colour creating a calm and easy-to-navigate space.

Professor Bee Wee, Sobell's clinical lead, said Oxfordshire's ageing population has driven demand for the hospice's specialist care.

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She said: "This new extension will enable us to progress with our strategy to meet this growing need.

"We are aiming to provide specialist palliative care and support to as many people as possible who need our services across Oxfordshire."

The cost of the extension was entirely funded by Sobell supporters through donations and legacies.

Staff worked with GBS Architects, Kingerlee Construction and Darke & Taylor electrical contractors to develop the concept.

Georgia Burt, senior interior designer at GBS, said: "Having the relationship between the existing and the new building was really critical, as was ensuring we created the right environment for patients and families."

Each year the hospice cares for about 3,000 people at home, in its day centre, inpatient ward and in hospitals.

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It costs £4m per year to run, about 60 per cent of which comes from the NHS, while £1.6m has to be generated through fundraising and through charity shops.

Diane Gardner, chief executive of Sobell House Hospice Charity, said the expansion would not have been possible without the community's generosity.

She said: "I can't quite believe we've got here - I'm really thrilled.

"This is about future-proofing the service in conjunction with OUH.

"A huge number of people have been involved and made it happen, and this is a testament to their commitment.

"The space has been very well received.

"The architects have made sure it is a light, airy and welcoming place, where everybody can feel comfortable while dealing with the difficulties they are facing."

More than 100 people attended the opening ceremony, and finishing touches are now being made before patients access the new build.