A new £21million A&E department is now officially up and running.

Northwick Park Hospital’s new facility was opened this morning, with services were moving from the old department during the early hours.

The London North West Healthcare NHS Trust, which runs the hospital, says the department is now closer other emergency services such as acute assessment, intensive treatment unit and operating theatres.

Also within the new building is the Urgent Care Centre, which the trust hopes will deal with around half of those attending A&E, treating minor injuries and illnesses which are not life threatening.

The trust's acting chief executive Simon Crawford said: "This is a fantastic new facility and is great news for our patients and staff.

“A lot of careful planning was required to enable the successful transfer from the old A&E to the new. This took place over a four hour period in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

“Our staff worked closely with a number of organisations, including local NHS Trusts and London Ambulance Service to ensure that the move went as smoothly as possible.

“I would like to thank all those involved for their sterling efforts.

“The opening of the new A&E supports the wider plans to improve patient care in North West London.”

Last week it was announced an independent inquiry will look into the impact of the closures of A&E departments at Central Middlesex and Hammersmith Hospitals on Northwick Park.

The commission was set up by Hammersmith & Fulham, Ealing, Brent and Hounslow borough councils and has been supported by Harrow Council.

Councils argue the closure of the two other departments have increased pressure on Northwick Park Hospital, leading to a shortage of beds for patients and an increase in waiting times.

It is hoped the new accident and emergency will enable quicker medical assessment of patients.