Major work has started at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital on a new £91 million building.
Part of the New Hospitals Programme, it will have four levels of hospital wards with 110 beds.
The majority will be single rooms.
Each level will have additional facilities as well as changing, showering and rest facilities for staff.
The 10,800 square metre state-of-the-art innovative modular construction is being built by healthcare specialist construction firm Darwin Group.
It’s due for completion in the winter of 2025.
Developments at the site have been described as a ‘once in a generation opportunity’ for the people of Bournemouth and surrounding areas.
The new building will be similar in height to the BEACH building which is nearing completion and is 30 metres high at its tallest point.
The new facility will be constructed to include photovoltaic (solar) system for renewable energy, to help the building be zero carbon.
Extensive catering facilities will sit on ground floor level to complement the new offer of improved food quality and choices.
The building forms part of the £500 million transformation programme across the University Hospital Dorset’s sites.
Richard Pierce, Darwin Group CEO, said: “We are incredibly proud to be working alongside our NHS partners to deliver this major project for the people of Dorset.
“The site will improve healthcare and outcomes for the local community for many years to come.
“With the demand for healthcare services higher than ever, the new unit will be able to extend and expand services for the local community while also providing employment opportunities for local people ranging from medical staff to support staff.”
Dr Robin O’Gorman, UHD Medical Care Group’s Medical Director said: “We are absolutely delighted to see this project underway.
“Patients will benefit from new ward spaces, with the majority being single rooms. Staff will also benefit from having a great place to work within.”