An �850,000 scheme to create extra clinical and training space at Beccles Hospital will begin on Monday.

The hospital's existing pharmacy is to be moved into larger, more modern premises, with the main health centre then made available to be used to extra clinics, offices and training rooms.

This will also allow the centre to provide extra services for its patients, such as minor surgery.

As a part of the work an existing storage area will be partially demolished, with some materials, including a stained glass window, preserved and reused in the redevelopment.

It is the latest stage in NHS Norfolk and Waveney's project to regenerate the health facilities on the site and comes after the PCT spent more than �1m refurbishing the hospital and adding additional consulting rooms, a waiting area and lift to the neighbouring health centre.

Sean Perry, who is leading the project for NHS Norfolk and Waveney, said: 'This investment will bring significant benefits to our patients by providing them with a bright, modern and spacious environment in which to access healthcare services.

'It also underlines our commitment to constantly improving primary care premises across the area so that they can continue to meet the needs of both patients and staff in the future.'

The project is due for completion early next year and during the work the entrance to the patients' car park will be partially blocked, with traffic lights in place.

As a result, patients using the hospital are being advised to leave more time to get to their appointments.