The new building will contain 21 cots, each with its own micro-environment in which heating, lighting, noise levels and support equipment can be tailored to individual needs. The cots, support and reception functions will be immediately adjacent to maternity services to ensure effective access to the new unit.

A refurbished section (the existing NICU) will house new parents' and staff facilities, with courtyard landscaping and space designed to promote calmness and minimise stress. A 100% increase in accommodation for parents will enable more babies to spend quality time with their parents in a supportive environment before going home, reducing the time they need to spend in the NICU.

The clockwise circuit of cot rooms and care areas will underpin the journey of care for a premature baby starting with intensive care, moving into high dependency, then to special care and finally being cared for in the parent's room before going home. This journey is an important psychological process for parents, the environment will change with each stage to accommodate the needs of the baby, their family and the NICU staff.