THE Prince of Wales has announced a major design initiative for the NHS, which includes the planned replacement of a North-East hospital.

The replacement for Cherry Knowle Hospital, in Sunderland, is one of five new-build hospital projects selected for the initiative and is the only one within the national pilot for mental health patients.

The Prince's Foundation will work with the trust to develop the design brief and will advise and support during the design process.

At a conference in London yesterday, Prince Charles said: "There are no buildings more essential than hospitals and none where the quality of design is more crucial.

"I am delighted, therefore, that my Foundation for Architecture and the Built Environment has been asked to become involved in the National Health Service's ambitious new programme of hospital building."

Cynthia Rickett and Alan Hall, of Priority Healthcare Wearside, attended the launch of the initiative.

Mr Hall said: "This is an excellent opportunity, not only to have a new hospital for Sunderland, but one where we are at the forefront of architectural design.

"It should put Sunderland firmly on the map for having the best possible environment for those patients whose surroundings are such a vital part of their care."