Work has begun on building the new, state-of-the-art Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice in Bellahouston Park.

Balfour Beatty has been announced as the contractor for the project, which is expected to take two years.

The first patients are scheduled to arrive in 2018.

Chief executive Rhona Baillie said: "“I am delighted to announce that Balfour Beatty will help us realise our dream to build a 21st-century healthcare facility for the people of Glasgow.

“This is a major step forward as work now starts at the site.”

Hector Macaulay, Balfour Beatty's regional managing director, Scotland added: “The way the community has pulled together over the last four years has been really impressive, raising vast sums of money to bring this state-of-the-art facility to fruition.

Read more: Bid to raise £1.6million to save the Winter Gardens launched

"We’re pleased to have got construction underway and to be working closely with The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice to deliver a facility which will provide high quality care for patients and their families.”

The Glasgow office of international law firm Pinsent Masons has provided vital pro bono work on the building project.

Kirk Murdoch, chairman of Scotland and Northern Ireland for Pinsent Masons, said: “We are delighted to be working with The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice on the design and development of a new hospice facility at Bellahouston Park.”

Alastair Forbes of Ryder Architecture is leading the team of architects.

He said: “We are delighted to see construction works commence and the realisation of this unique new hospice building.

"The project team have worked closely with The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice over a long period of time to reach this moment and we look forward to working with Balfour Beatty Construction Services in this exciting next stage."

The new hospice will bring 21st century palliative care to the people of Glasgow, lowering the age limit of patients to include 15-year-olds and their families.

Read more: Bid to raise £1.6million to save the Winter Gardens launched

This will be the first hospice in the UK to follow the Sengetun model of care, which has “placemaking” at the centre of its approach.

This innovative state-of-the-art Scandinavian design provides space for privacy, dignity and compassionate care for all ages.

Glasgow Lord Provost Sadie Docherty said: “I’m proud that the council continues to be a firm friend and supporter of The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice. The people who work and volunteer there are amazing. Today brings them nearer their goal of providing a modern facility to care for people. It’s exciting to be able to join them on this important and special journey.”

The hospice still has to raise £2.7million of the £21m needed to finish the build. It recently launched Buy a Brick, the latest phase of its Brick by Brick Appeal. To donate, visit www.ppwh.org.uk/donate or text BRICK to 70660.