Colchester Hospital’s new entrance has opened its doors to the public for the first time.

East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, which runs the site, has created the revamped entrance, shops and reception as part of multi-million pound improvements.

The works have been underway since July.

Finishing touches are being carried out but the WH Smith, Costa, and Marks and Spencers are now open to customers.

The League of Friends team are also set to open their new shop this week.

Gazette:

Nick Hulme, chief executive of the trust, said: “Whether you’re coming to Colchester Hospital now or in the future to see a loved one, or if you’re coming here to receive care, your experience with us will be a better one.

“Now we have a brighter, welcoming and spacious main entrance that we hope will be more calming and reassuring for patients and visitors when they first arrive at the hospital.

“We have improved our facilities too – there’s better access for wheelchair users, there’s more seating and more toilets, as well as the additional shops and cafes.”

Gazette:

Paul Fenton, director of estates and facilities at the trust, said the new front was self-financing with rents from the shops covering the cost of the building work.

Landscaping and improvements to the lake will be carried out early next year.