The new maternity, neonatal and emergency gynaecology units at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital are to officially open at 8am on Monday March 31st.
University Hospitals Dorset says its state-of-the-art maternity and neonatal unit in the new BEACH building will deliver more than 4,400 babies a year.
All emergency gynaecology and early pregnancy services will also be moving to the hospital on the same day.
Until March 31st, maternity care will continue to be provided at St Mary’s Maternity Unit in Poole which will then close.
It has welcomed an estimated 250,000 babies over the last 64 years.
Sarah Herbert, UHD’s Chief Nursing Officer, said: “This relocation marks a significant advancement in maternity, neonatal and emergency gynaecology services, providing modern, state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance the experience for parents and newborns.
“With improved amenities, including provisions for a support person to remain throughout the stay, our new units represent a commitment to delivering the highest standard of care.
“The team are looking forward to welcoming expectant parents and families to our new facilities from the 31 March.”
The BEACH Building is a 22,650m², six-storey facility dedicated to patient care.
In addition to the new maternity and neonatal unit, it includes a children’s unit, an enhanced emergency department and a larger critical care facility.
The move is part of the plan to focus all emergency care at Royal Bournemouth Hospital.
Poole Hospital is set to become the biggest major planned care centre in the UK.