Mr Knights said: “We have an ability, through video technology and also pressure pads in the floor, to be able to know when a patient needs assistance.”

There would be a significant change for out-patients and no waiting room, he added.

Patients would check in on a smartphone, or volunteers would help with checking them in when they arrive.

Concerns were raised about patients feeling isolated in single rooms, but Mr Knights said there would be shared spaces on wards.

He added there would be no impact on services during the construction, and that he expected the transfer from the old to the new hospital to take about a fortnight once the facility is ready.