A £47m UECC has been opened by Scarborough Hospital marking the largest capital investment by York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

The three-year project includes a ground floor UECC unit and a first-floor 26-bed critical and enhanced care unit.

Simon Morritt, chief executive of York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘I firmly believe this new facility represents genuine healthcare innovation for the people of Scarborough and the surrounding area. It will transform the experience of patients and staff, and provide a modern, fit-for-purpose environment for delivering the very best care.'

Significant upgrades have also been made to the hospital's infrastructure, including modernised electrical systems, ventilation and drainage.

Dr Ed Smith, consultant in emergency medicine and deputy medical director, said: ‘This is the single most significant step change in patient and staff experience for the delivery of urgent and emergency care in Scarborough and the surrounding areas in our working lifetimes and its importance cannot be overstated.

‘This new centre will completely transform how we manage patients. Clinicians will be able to make quicker decisions, reduce waiting times and keep people out of hospital when it's safe to do so - while ensuring those who do need admission are cared for promptly and efficiently.'