New eye hospital's reveal 'hugely exciting'

Sunderland's new eye hospital is scheduled to open its doors next year

Health chiefs say a new eye hospital has reached a major milestone with its exterior revealed for the first time.

Sunderland's Eye Infirmary, due to open next summer, will replace an existing facility on Queen Alexandra Road which was deemed no longer fit for purpose.

Scaffolding on the development has now been removed.

Dr Ajay Kotagiri, clinical director of ophthalmology services at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, described it as a "hugely exciting moment for everyone involved in the project".

Built on a site formerly home to Vaux Brewery, it will include an A&E waiting space designed with children in mind, children's treatment rooms and specific waiting areas.

Its Cataract Treatment Centre is also set to be one of the biggest services of its kind in the country, while other facilities will include a surgical day unit and operating theatres.

"It's the first time you can see the hospital's design from the street and it is very impressive," Dr Kotagiri said.

"We're so proud of the exceptional eye care we already provide in Sunderland, but we're looking forward to having the facility to match."

The hospital is among developments "breathing new life into Sunderland's city centre", Councillor Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for housing, regeneration and business said.

Contractor Kier will spend the next few months focusing on the building's internal fit-out, the health trust said.

Some staff were able to get their first glimpse inside in July.