The new underpass to the state of the art health centre is set to be ready to use by local residents in summer 2015, and will provide a direct route for patients with limited mobility.

A total of £800,000 is being spent by the City of Edinburgh Council on the underpass, which is being built by Morrison Construction in three phases - the second phase is underway and involves work on power cables. The third and final phase will start this Spring-time and will focus on the construction of the actual tunnel.

Councillor Ricky Henderson, health, social care and housing convener, said: “This fantastic facility is a real benefit to local residents as it’s a one-stop shop for their health needs. As well as being home to key Council social care teams, it is also a centre point for the local community and gives service providers the ability to deliver quality, integrated services to those who need them.

“The new underpass will be well lit, have a clear line of sight from one end to the other and accessible by a sloping ramp. It will provide a safe, quick access for patients, particularly those with mobility issues, who face a longer detour at the moment.”

The centre provides new accommodation for the Wester Hailes Medical Practice and community health and social care services, including physiotherapy, dentistry, podiatry, speech and language therapy, midwifery, paediatrics, mental health and learning disabilities and a wide range of social work services.

It also accommodates the Wester Hailes Health Agency, which offers counselling, massage and relaxation, as well as group activities such as walking groups and exercise classes.