Harrogate's NHS Nightingale Hospital to be used for outpatient radiology appointments

Harrogate's NHS Nightingale Hospital had been on standby to take coronavirus patients if hospitals in Yorkshire became overwhelmed Credit: PA

Harrogate's NHS Nightingale Hospital is to be used for the first time - but not for patients suffering from Covid-19.

The 500-bed hospital, built at the Harrogate Convention Centre, will be used for outpatient radiology appointments from Thursday.

It had since been on standby after opening in April to take coronavirus patients if hospitals in Yorkshire became overwhelmed.

Patients will be screened for coronavirus symptoms before their appointment Credit: PA

The Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust and The Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust will be the first to use the facility, providing appointments seven days a week.

Patients who are isolating or shielding will not be seen in Harrogate and those attending will be screened before their appointment for any coronavirus symptoms.