Hospital bosses have praised both firms’ final designs as “absolutely outstanding” following the latest series of contract talks.

Chief executive Louise Shepherd told the Liverpool Daily Post: “Staff, patients and families across the trust have been working closely for months on its design with two bidding consortia who are competing for the prestigious contract to build the first Children’s Health Park in Europe.

“The first draft of their designs have been formally shared with the trust this week, and both are absolutely outstanding.

“We are delighted with them and know that they will radically improve the care we can give our children in the future.”

A final decision on a winner will be made in November with construction work set to start late next year.

Shepherd added: “We shall be working further with both bidders over the next four months before making a final decision as to whom to award the contract in November.

“We shall then be in a position to share the plans widely with our patients and families and the people of Merseyside and, subject to agreeing final planning issues with Liverpool City Council, plan to start work on-site at the end of 2012.”

Balfour Beatty is working with architects Anshen and Allen on its designs while Laing O’Rourke – as part of the Acorn Consortium with Laing Investments and Interserve – has teamed up with BDP.