NHS Lothian has submitted proposals for a new £72m community hospital in East Lothian.

The facility will be built on the existing Roodlands site in Haddington.

Construction is anticipated to start in late 2016.

The submissions follows an extensive consultation with local communities.

The project will be developed by Hub South East Scotland.

Some services will return to East Lothian as part of the development and it will bring an almost 60% increase in inpatient beds to the county

David Small, Chief Officer, East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership, said: "We are delighted to have reached this important stage in the process of developing the new hospital.

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"These are exciting plans which will see a modern and purpose-built hospital developed, helping improve the quality of care for people in East Lothian.

"Staff have formed a key role in the design layout of the new building, and have influenced the outcome of the proposed plans of their departments and location within the building."

Paul McGirk, Chief Executive of Hub South East Scotland, added: "Hub South East has been supporting NHS Lothian in the initial planning of this project and we are excited to reach another key milestone, allowing us to further progress the development, design and construction of this much needed facility for East Lothian.

"We look forward to continuing this successful working relationship, helping NHS Lothian deliver on its strategic aims, and providing modern, fit-for-purpose health care facilities for local residents."

The project team anticipate submitting the Outline Business Case for approval to the Scottish Government by early 2016.

(LM/CD)