WORK has begun on ambitious plans to radically improve the green space around Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH) in Glasgow.

The project is at an early stage but it is hoped that the campus will be a hub for improved greenspace, active travel and biodiversity.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) has commissioned erz Landscape Architects to review the site.

The study will explore and identify the potential for a greener landscape for the social, environmental and economic benefit of the hospital, its staff, patients and visitors and those who live nearby.

Opportunities at a strategic level, such as green networks and active travel in the wider area, will be identified.

Improvements on the campus will relate to active travel, biodiversity, wayfinding and navigability, as well as arts programmes and environmental measures.

Tom Steele, director of facilities and estates at NHSGGC, said: “The QEUH campus provides us with an incredible opportunity to improve the greenspace, connecting the hospital with local communities and providing improved space for patients and staff.

“We all know the benefits of greenspace for our mental and physical health and NHSGGC is committed to investing in our estate to take advantage of the natural health service on our doorstep.”

Felicity Steers, director of Glasgow-based erz Landscape Architects, said: “A lot of community life happens in the spaces between buildings and this is particularly true during covid restrictions.

“Other work we have done for NHSGGC and NHS Scotland shows the many benefits of good outdoor spaces which can be used for rest and respite, outdoor meetings, exercise and therapies.

“The potential at the QEUH Campus is huge and we are really looking forward to working with the team there to develop phase one and get people outdoors making positive use of the full range of outdoor spaces.”

Detailed design drawings and cost plans will be developed to enable funding to be sought from external partners.

A crucial part of the project will be engagement with staff, patients, carers and all communities who visit, and live around the QEUH. People can share their initial thoughts online.