VISITORS to the hospital are greeted by a glass-flanked coffee shop and a balcony, which is home to a restaurant that overlooks the entrance.

These are owned by United News, who pay rent for the space.

The agreement caused controversy when it was revealed last month that the WRVS charity, which had previously operated a cafe, said it could not afford to base itself in the new hospital.

United News' managing director Roger Swift said: "It is more market driven. People expect a lot more now than they did 20 years ago. The WRVS is still present in a lot of hospitals. but they have been driven to do it in a much more commercial way.

"I don't think people care whether it is a private company, or not."

Keeping patients and staff safe at the development is a security team. One guard is based in A&E, another in the base at the main entrance, while two patrol the development, outside and inside. The Patient Advice and Laison Service is also on hand at the long reception desk.

The PALS team work with patients who either want to complain, or find out more information about their treatment. They also oversee a team of 25 volunteers who direct people around the hospital.

PALS officer Jeanette Pearson said: "It has been extremely busy this week. The volunteers have done a fantastic job and we are always looking for more it is a lot more footwork!"

Hospital bosses have apologised for problems people have had parking at the site this week. There are 1,931 spaces planned for the site but, at present, 1,777 are available, of which 589 are for visitors.