Goodyear's £1 million donation has turned Compton Hospice 'dream into reality'

The major revamp of the site has been made possible thanks to the generous donations of Goodyear workers.

The Unite union branch of the ill-fated Wolverhampton firm, which is set close at the end of the year, will fund the entire scheme using its 5/344 Transport and General Workers Sick and Distress Fund, which is winding up after more than three decades.

Exciting plans were revealed on Friday for a substantial redevelopment of the Compton Road West-based site and the arrival of a brand new building, which is set to be completed in around 18 months.

Claire Marshall, chief executive of the hospice, said: "We are overwhelmed by the generosity and contribution.

"This is an incredible tribute that will see a dynamic and contemporary health care environment built on this site.

"We are currently discussing plans and aim to have it built in 18 months, which will be perfect for our 35th anniversary next year. This has turned a dream for us into reality." The new hub will include improved mortuary facilities, while the crumbling green house and maintenance hut.

The building will also include a nod to Goodyear with the roof having a tyre-tred design and a metal plaque will be added to the building once it is finished.

Cyril Barrett, chairman of the Unite Goodyear branch, said: "It's not what we take out but what we put back in and leave behind, and this will be an existing legacy for all of the Black Country.

"Whether directly or indirectly, everyone has been touched by the fantastic work that Compton Hospice do.

"We are really proud of this investment for the community." The Unite Union Wolverhampton branch has been actively supporting the work of Compton Hospice since 2003, having donated more than £50,000 to support patient care through various projects and equipment.

Just a third of the hospice's funding comes from the Government and its running costs are more than £6m a year.