Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital is undergoing a R400 million face-lift, the health department announced on Wednesday.

Units currently under construction at the hospital are accidents, emergency and trauma; radiology; and pharmacy.

Gavin Cooper, of Asch-Gosiame construction project management which oversees the construction, said the company had used 40 percent (R160 million) of the money allocated to revamp the hospital.

Due to service delays the project would be finished next year May.

"We are facing a three-month backlog. But at present we are busy with the revamp project to assist us to catch up with the underground work that has been delayed," said Cooper.

The construction is part of the hospital revitalisation programme aimed at improving facilities, infrastructure, organisational development and equipment.

MEC for Health Brian Hlongwa said: "This project is to ensure that this hospital restores the dignity and integrity of the people of Soweto. It would be a centre of excellence for the best services to cater for a variety of needs."

Sapa