The Canterbury District Health Board has unveiled massive redevelopment plans for Christchurch Hospital.
The DHB's chief executive, David Meates, says stage one would include two new multi-level buildings on the current car park, a new children's facility and a helicopter pad.
He says the proposal, which would increase bed numbers from 350 to nearly 500, still requires the Minister of Health's approval.
The DHB says the redevelopment is needed because Canterbury's ageing population is putting pressure on the existing hospital, which is already old, not purpose-built and does not meet earthquake standards.
The board has still to develop a business case, for approval by the Minister of Health by this time next year. Mr Meates says the DHB could meet the cost of stage one and it is hoped the Government would fund stage two, valued at around $300 million.
