PEOPLE in Rossendale will be consulted on proposals for an overhaul of children's health services in Bury.

A review of maternity services includes the possible closure of the Special Baby Care Unit at Bury's Fairfield Hospital, which has upset many local people.

Leader of Bury Council Coun John Byrne pledged that no decisions would be taken on maternity services until months of consultation and debate had been completed.

The formal consultation document is being prepared by the Greater Manchester Strategic Health Authority and is likely to be issued in mid-October with a closing date of January 31, 2005 for comment . The review being undertaken by Bury Council's Healthier and Safer Scrutiny Commission will feed into this consultation.

Written comments should be submitted to Alan Darnell, the council's Principal Policy Officer, at Room 3, Bury Town Hall, Knowsley Street, Bury BL9 0SW. Tel.0161253 6020 or e-mail A.Darnell@bury.gov.uk.