The new emergency department at Bath's Royal United Hospital will open its doors on June 4 at 7am.

David Watson, the lead clinician for emergency services, said: "We are delighted that we will soon be opening our new department.

"Over the past few years we have seen a significant increase in the number of emergency patients attending the emergency department and current facilities are no longer adequate."

The £7.5m purpose-built unit is located on the site of the former accident and emergency department, which was demolished 18 months ago.

"The design of the new department includes expanded treatment areas for both minor and major emergency patients, a new reception and waiting area and improved facilities for treating children," said Mr Watson.

"Our staff have been involved in all aspects of the design and anticipate that this purpose-built environment will enable us to assess and treat patients more efficiently and to deliver the highest level of care."

From June 4 the public will enter the emergency department via a new entrance. Both ambulances and the public will reach the department via the Princess Anne Wing and the emergency department entrance off Combe Park, formerly the entrance to A&E.

A temporary patient set down area is immediately outside the department and visitors can park in the yellow car park outside the Princess Anne Wing.

The public will enter the new department through a dedicated entrance while ambulance staff and patients will use doors marked ambulance entrance.

The public will no longer be able to enter the emergency department via the hospital's main entrance off Combe Park.