A new eye hospital in Swindon is set to significantly reduce waiting times for cataract surgery for Wiltshire, Bath, and North East Somerset residents.

SpaMedica, an independent provider of NHS eye health services, has opened its 60th hospital at Canberra House on Lydiard Fields Business Park.

Residents can expect to be treated within four to eight weeks, a significant reduction from the national target of 18 weeks.

The facility is equipped with the latest diagnostic and treatment technology.

A free door-to-door transport service is available for those needing assistance with travel to and from appointments, and there is free parking on site.

The new site joins a growing list of SpaMedica hospitals in the southwest, with facilities already in Bristol, Taunton, and Gloucester.

SpaMedica has built a strong reputation since opening in 2008, with each of its hospitals that has been inspected by the Care Quality Commission being awarded a 'good' or 'outstanding' rating.

More than 19,000 patients have given the company a five-star rating on the NHS website.

One of these patients is Graham, from Bristol, who described his experience as "absolutely brilliant".

He said: "I have had cataract removal on both eyes. The operations were both successful.

"Pre-operation assessments, operations, and post-operation follow-ups were all arranged speedily.

"The staff are really friendly and helpful, reassuring, and knowledgeable. The facilities are spotless. I was really impressed."

With almost 16 per cent of Swindon's residents aged 65 or older, and 30 per cent of this age group likely to need cataract surgery, the new hospital is set to benefit thousands.

Hospital manager, Hannah Young, said: "We can’t wait to welcome patients to our Swindon hospital, where our experienced team will ensure they are well looked after throughout their treatment journey.

"We understand the impact that cataracts can have - not only on people’s vision, but also on their quality of life - and we’re looking forward to helping lots of people to see more clearly again."

NHS patients diagnosed with cataracts or posterior capsule opacification can request a referral to SpaMedica Swindon through their optician or GP.

People experiencing symptoms such as blurred vision, difficulty driving at night, difficulty watching television and reading, being dazzled by sunlight or bright lights, fading colours, or frequent changes to their spectacle or contact lens prescription should book an appointment with their optician.

The optician will perform an eye check and refer them for treatment if needed.

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