Construction is anticipated to start on the project in late 2016, however planning approval and business case approval is still awaited from East Lothian Council and Scottish Government, respectively.

As part of the development some services will return to East Lothian and it will bring an almost 60 per cent increase in inpatient beds to the county.

The will see a modern and purpose-built hospital developed, helping improve the quality of care for people in East Lothian.

Staff have formed a key role in the design layout of the new building, and have influenced the outcome of the proposed plans of their departments and location within the building. While the project team has engaged extensively with over 300 local people, including neighbours close to the Roodlands site and valued their comments.

NHS Lothian have been working with development partner hub South East Scotland Ltd on the project and expect to submit the Outline Business Case which will set out exact costs, hospital services and timescales in early 2016.