WORK to build a new main entrance at Poole Hospital is due to start next month.

The improvement work will include the construction of new retail units and a large reception area in a bid to improve patient “dignity and safety”.

Planning permission for the project was awarded last month and work is due to start next month before being completed at the end of March.

As part of the work, a new main entrance will replace the existing courtyard and corridor area.

Three new retail spaces – a café, a convenience store and a gift shop – will be built, creating 15 jobs, along with the development of a “large and airy reception and waiting area” and drop-off point.

Under the plans approved by Poole council, a first floor link will be established to connect the main hospital building with the Dorset Cancer Centre and the Philip Arnold ward.

The scheme has been welcomed by the hospital’s chief executive Debbie Fleming who said it would improve patients’ experiences.

She said: “This development will make a huge difference to our patients, visitors and staff ahead of the significant estates works that will be taking place at a later date as implement the recommendations of Dorset CCG’s clinical services review.”

In a report to the hospital trust’s board, ahead of its meeting on Wednesday, she added that work was due to start on the project in October.

“We are delighted that this development will be going ahead at no cost to the trust but will provide better facilities for patients and visitors attending the site and much clearer sign-posting/way-finding to our wards and departments,” she said.

“It will also enable the creation of a new internal corridor that will allow patients to be transferred between the main block and the Philip Arnold Unit in much greater comfort and privacy.”

Construction work has been phased to reduce disruption with work split so that the new entrance is opened before the existing retail facilities are closed.

Between October and December, temporary access routes will be established while demolition work takes place.

Refurbishment of the dome area will also follow the opening of the new entrance.