Latest phase of new-look Aintree Hospital in for planning

Plans by architects Taylor Young for a £20m scheme at Aintree University Hospital have been submitted to Liverpool City Council.

Under the proposals, the accident and emergency department will be extended to allow more room for patients receiving treatment and new 'see and treat' rooms will be built to help the flow of patients through the department. The critical care department will be expanded by 24 beds. The fracture clinic will move into a new purpose-built department to improve access for patients requiring treatment and cardiology will be centralised to ensure greater access between the department and coronary care.

Roof lights on the ceilings will allow more natural light in to the building, creating a brighter environment for patients, staff and visitors. There will also be significant changes to the roads directly outside the hospital to improve A&E access for ambulances and pedestrians, with new crossings installed to improve traffic flow.

The project will be entirely self-funded by the Trust as part of a £100m development programme that has already seen a new elective care centre, physiotherapy department, diabetes centre, therapies centre and refurbished radiology department.

BAM Construction has been appointed on the two-year build.

Catherine Beardshaw, chief executive of Aintree Hospital, said: "We are about to embark on a very exciting project that will ensure we can provide the best quality care to patients in modern, fit-for-purpose facilities. The result will be a much more patient-friendly environment.

"Studies have also shown that at times of stress, the environment can make a big difference to how we react. The redesign of these areas of the hospital will help support a relaxed atmosphere for our patients, staff and visitors."