LATEST improvements at Airedale Hospital are a sign of the times.

A new signage system is being introduced at the Steeton site.

About 900 signs will be installed to replace current, outdated ones within the hospital and its grounds.

"It is a huge change but we hope it will benefit our patients who often find our site confusing the first time they visit the hospital," said David Moss, interim deputy director of strategy, business development, estates and facilities at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust.

"The current signage has no real logic and just evolved as the hospital has developed.

"Our new system is well thought-out, consistent and colour-coded and we have involved patients in the planning process to make sure it is easy to use."

The work will be carried out by Nuneaton Signs, between February 29 and March 11.

The project is supported by Wayfinder UK Ltd, which has worked on new signage systems with other hospitals, railway stations, universities and airports.

From early next month, extra volunteer guides will be on hand at the hospital to help patients during the transition period.

And information points, with maps of the site and department directories, will be located at site entrances and junctions.

John Lofthouse, section leader for the volunteer guides, said: "It may take a little time for some people to get used to the new signage, but I feel sure it will help all patients and visitors in the future.

"However if there is anyone who does need help, the guides are there to provide assistance."

A downloadable version of the site map and department directory will also be available at airedale-trust.nhs.uk.