An MP snipped a ribbon to officially open new complementary healthcare facilities at a health centre in south Tottenham.

The Laurels Healthy Living Centre welcomed the Tottenham MP David Lammy along with Dr Geoffrey Ocen, the chief executive of the Bridge Renewal Trust charity, the Mayor of Haringey, Councillor Sheila Peacock and staff at the centre on Friday afternoon.

The expanded facilities began treating patients seven weeks ago, and now treats 7,500 people a week.

Mr Lammy, who opened the centre in June 2004, said: “I want to see the centre flourish. 

“In a changing health landscape, where new social and economic pressures face our medical services, it is crucial the people of Tottenham continue to have access to first-rate facilities and healthcare provision.

"I whole-heartedly welcome the expansion of the Laurels, and wish it well in this new chapter of its life.”

The new facilities occupy an area that was originally a café. They include a reception area, a room for group therapy sessions where smokers are offered six week courses.

The centre also provides acupuncture, aromatherapy, deep tissue massage, physiotherapy, Pilates and foot care.

In order to promote healthy eating, the charity offers lessons in cooking and to help reduce unemployment, the charity is keen for volunteers with experience of working with patients with mental health issues and also offers advice on CV writing and filling in application forms.

Ms Hughes added: “The new facilities will enable us to increase the choices available to local people to help them improve their health and wellbeing.”

There is a proposal to have a pharmacy on the site and Ms Hughes said there would be further consultation about that.

Staff member Russell King said: “With the facilities down here we’ve freed up space for one-on-one counselling upstairs.

“Our partners are Haringey Community Health, the Latin American Women Rights Service. Other groups are Solace Women’s Aid and Wise Dolls.

"We have two GP surgeries so with complementary and clinical care in one building so that will really help.”