THE next stage of the £200million redevelopment of Morriston Hospital has been given the go-ahead by planners.

Phase 1B, as it is known, will include the construction of a new main entrance, reception area and shops, a discharge lounge, offices, medical education facilities, multi-faith centre, endoscopy suites and security offices, including a CCTV centre.

The changes are part of a major revamp of the site, parts of which date back to the World War II.

Voting to approve the plans, members of Swansea Council's planning committee said they hoped the liaison between the health bosses and the public — and especially people living near the hospital — would continue.

Morriston ward councillor Robert Francis Davies said: "The liaison so far has been excellent.

"We look forward to seeing a lot more investment in this site — it is good not just for Swansea but for West Wales as a whole."

The first stage of the redevelopment saw the building of a new surface-level car park, and a raised helicopter landing for emergency medical transfers.

The revamp — being funded by the Assembly — also includes new roads, landscaping and a multi-storey car park.

Below: An update on the work taking place at Morriston Hospital. (footage supplied by ABM University Health Board)

Phase one is expected to be completed by 2013.

Paul Stauber, director of planning at Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board said: "We're delighted with the pace of progress.

"The plans are very impressive and show a bright future for Morriston and the staff and patients who use the hospital.

"This will really bring services to a new level in Swansea and, along with plans for our other sites, including the work under way at Cefn Coed, will help provide the best health service we can for Swansea."