WORK has begun on a project to transform a barren courtyard at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital into a garden for patients.

The trust has been planning to revamp the area, situated in a gap between hospital buildings, since work on the Jigsaw building was completed earlier this year.

Princess Anne viewed the site and the plans - which will link the new garden to the existing parkland around the lake - during her visit to officially open the building in March.

Dubbed the Orchard Garden Project, the scheme has been funded with donations from residents, organisations and companies which together have raised more than £145,000 - only £15,000 short of the target.

Former patient and fundraiser Lynne Deller said: “This is a big project and will make a tremendous difference to the wellbeing of local people while they are receiving treatment at the hospital.

“Local supporters have already been so generous in raising the funds needed to enable this ambitious project to happen.

“It is wonderful to see that the work can now be started and we are so near our target to complete the gardens.”

Work on the project, intended to give patients the opportunity to enjoy some fresh air outside in a tranquil setting before, during and after procedures, started on Monday.

It is particularly aimed at patients from the adjacent Jigsaw building’s chemotherapy suite and women’s health department, and patients from the renal unit.

The garden will be fully accessible for people with mobility issues, with specially-designed decking making it easier for patients unable to walk to the side of the nearby lake.

It will have different themed areas with paving, fencing and sleeper walls installed during the initial construction phase.

This will be followed by the planting of flower beds for year-round flowers and annuals, the forming of hard and soft landscaping, and the planting of large shrubs to the inner courtyard area.

Bournemouth Hospital Charity is appealing for further donations to help raise the final £15,000 to complete the project.

To get in touch about fundraising call 01202 704060 or visit bournemouthhospitalcharity.org.uk.

To donate £10 to this project text LEAF00 £10 to 70070.