A VOLUNTEER run shop will be relocated to accommodate for a set of new big-name retail units at Colchester Hospital.

Last week, plans were revealed for a multi-million pound revamp of the front entrance of the Turner Road hospital, including the creation of a new reception area, café and retail units.

The retail units could be occupied by big brands like M&S or Costa, and the trust has admitted the volunteer run shop at the front of the hospital, which is managed by the League of Friends at Colchester Hospital, will have to move to accommodate for the new facilities.

However the East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Partnership Trust said it was committed to continuing its "long and happy" relationship with the group.

Paul Fenton, director of estate and facilities at the trust, said: “We have a long and happy relationship with the League of Friends at Colchester Hospital who have for the past 60 years supported patients, their families and staff at the hospital with their generosity and time.

"There is absolutely no question of us not wanting the League of Friends to continue to have a strong presence in the hospital.

"What we are currently working through is how we can manage all of the practicalities involved in building a new main entrance to the hospital with improved facilities for our patients and staff at the front of the hospital.

"This means that we will need to change the layout of the existing main entrance to Colchester Hospital and move the current League of Friends shop.

"We are currently in discussions with the League of Friends and exploring a range of alternative options across the hospital site to which we may be able to relocate their services."

League of Friends' chairman Frank Jordan said the group had nothing further to add at this time.

If the trust's redevelopment plans are approved, there would also be extra office space added as well as more room for the urgent treatment centre linked to the existing emergency department.

An overhaul of the road system directly outside the front of the hospital will also see the new building replace the access road outside the entrance.

Access for buses would be maintained via a “turning loop” at the southern entrance to the site, whilst a drop off and pick up zone for ambulances, cars and taxis will be built near to the new building.