New Royal Victoria starts to take shape

EDINBURGH'S new Royal Victoria Hospital is starting to take shape.

Ward areas are visible and staff can see the foundations of where they will be working next year.

The 44 million project next to the Western General - will replace the current elderly people's hospital in Craigleith which has had a number of problems because of its outdated layout.

Sue Gardiner, project manager for NHS Lothian, said: "Things are really moving on now and it is becoming more exciting for everyone.

"At this stage, staff have the opportunity to become involved, which gives them a sense of ownership of the new building. This is especially important because the services will be transferred in June 2012 - only 17 months away - and there is a great deal of work to be achieved in this time."