Work is underway on creating a helipad in St George's Hospital with the UK's largest crane at the site.

The construction of the 25m by 25m helipad began on Monday and is due for completion in January 2014.

It is the second London hospital to have a helipad and will provide for patients brought by air ambulance.

A lift shaft in the middle of the wing is being built so patients can be lowered quickly into the hands of medical experts.

The Helicopter Emergency Landing Pads (HELP) have contributed £1m towards the project, with Miller Construction taking on the building work.

An original planning application was scrapped in March this year because it was not big enough for search and rescue helicopters.

Heather Jarman, clinical director for major trauma, said: "It’s great to see the progress being made with the construction and the crane on site - a sure sign that a major step forward in the care of seriously ill patients is being  made right here at St George’s."

"As well as the HELP Appeal and the Mayor of London, we have had the support of the local authority and residents to develop the helipad.

"Our major trauma centre already has the facilities and staff to provide expert care and we look forward to being able to receive the most seriously injured patients to St George’s sooner than ever before."

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