The development of a new medical unit at Croydon University Hospital is starting to take shape.

The Acute Medical Unit (AMU) will treat the hospital’s most acutely ill patients and take pressure of the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department.

About £1.2 million is being invested in the new unit, which will reduce waiting times and ensure patients receive the most appropriate treatment as quickly as possible.

Since the work started in June, the ward has been refurbished and the first phase of electrical work is complete.

There is a new layout for patient beds and bathrooms have been replaced with wet rooms, which are more accessible for people in wheelchairs and with mobility problems.

The overall layout of the new AMU has started to change, with the new design using space more efficiently. Structural changes have also taken place to ensure privacy and dignity.

Director of Nursing, Zoe Packman, said: “The development of the AMU is progressing really well.

"Its prompt redevelopment will mean we quickly have a new unit with a better environment, which will improve our patients experience and overall wellbeing while here.”