The contract was awarded by Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust through the ProCure 21+ Framework.

Work will start on site in October by Miller Construction for its healthcare arm Miller hps. The job is due to be completed by July 2014.

Chris Webster, Chief Executive, Miller Construction, said: “We are delighted to have secured this contract. Miller hps and the Trust will now work together to seek best value and high quality design refinements for this facility which will be built by Miller Construction.

“Health is a key market for us, and our ability to provide solutions is the key differentiator in working with us as delivery partner – our health offer is driven by service-led solutions as opposed to construction-led designs.”

Peter Harding, Director of Estates and Facilities, Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are extremely pleased to announce the award of the contract for the proposed Emergency Care Centre to Miller Construction.

“We were very impressed with their credentials and look forward to working with them over the coming months to start the build of this exciting capital project.

“We see the build of the emergency care centre as the essential next step in our aim to provide the highest quality services that we possibly can for our patients.”

The 9,500sqm Emergency Care Centre is a three storey new build, which will create a new focal entrance to the hospital.