Some Manchester Academy students worked with the NHS team to advise on the design of the new children's hospital. The young people were also invited onto the board.

Below is what happened next...

Kids design a haven of tranquillity

A tranquil garden with fountains, designed by a team of creative youngsters, will be a feature of Manchester's New Children's Hospital.

Four teams of 12-year olds from Manchester Academy in Moss Side spent a morning creating 'an area for relaxation' which measures 53ft by 68ft.

Their winning design will be incorporated into the lay-out of the hospital being constructed on the site of the Manchester Royal Infirmary, in Oxford Road.

One member of the winning team, said: "We called our garden 'Tranquillity' and set out to create an area which really puts children at ease.

"In addition to two fountains on each side of a central pathway, there are also seats for people to sit down on when they come out of hospital.

"I couldn't believe when I was told that our design had won and we will not see it turned into a real garden."

Jill Baker, who is part of the team managing the hospital building project, helping to judge the design competition. She said: "I was very impresses by how well the teams worked together to research, design and present their ideas.

"It's great that these young people have come with such an eye catching scheme, which will be enjoyed by other children and will enhance the hospital environment."

Article courtesy of Manchester Evening News - Tuesday, November 27, 2007