Kids hospital 'no longer fit for purpose'

STAFF at the city's Sick Kids Hospital have reinforced their views that the current building is not fit for purpose.

During a visit to the Sciennes facility by NHS Lothian chief executive James Barbour, workers impressed upon him the need for a new hospital.

The health board wants to move to Little France to a purpose-built 250 million hospital, but the 2013 opening date has been pushed back at least two years amid a funding row.

The Scottish Government had originally pledged to pay for the hospital through the public purse, but now a private financing model must be pursued.

However, Mr Barbour reaffirmed his determination to see the move through.

He said: "I was able to give staff reassurance of the board's determination to achieve the redevelopment of the Hospital. Staff were understanding but keen to point out that the present accommodation is no longer fit for purpose."