Multi-million pound plans to transform and extend the main entrance of Colchester Hospital have been given the go-ahead.

The revamp, which will be funded through a commercial partnership agreement, was approved by Colchester Council’s planning committee.

It will be the first major work which has been done to the entrance since the hospital opened in 1985 and bosses say it will pave the way for the expansion of the healthcare facility, including the emergency department.

New café and retail units will be created, possibly run by big-name brands like Costa or M&S, new toilet facilities will be installed and a complete overhaul of the roads at the front of the hospital is planned.

READ MORE: This is how Colchester Hospital could look after major revamp

Nick Hulme, chief executive of East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said the revamp would “transform the patient and visitor experience”.

“The entrance and reception areas are frequently our patients’ first impression of the hospital, and it shapes their whole experience of coming to hospital at what for many is a stressful and anxious time,” he said.

“By increasing the space and improving the facilities in this area we aim to create a calming, safe and reassuring comfortable environment.

“The new main entrance development is an important element of our overall long term vision, which provides us the opportunity to renew a sense of pride in the hospital as we work to ensure we offer our patients the high standards of care and high quality facilities we would choose for our own families.”

At the front of the hospital the access road will be replaced with pedestrian only access. A new drop-off and pick-up loop will be created next to the extended emergency department and a separate turning loop will be installed for public transport.

Head of estates and facilities Nick Chatten said the improvements would increase safety for pedestrians and reduce congestion.

Work should be complete by December.