A BLUEPRINT for the upgrading of healthcare in local hospitals has been submitted for approval. The proposals would cost £190 million to improve services in this area, including more beds, better food and more modern facilities.

St Helens and Knowsley Hospitals NHS Trust, together with local agencies, has submitted a plan for the redevelopment of services.

The plan is now being considered by the Health Capital Planning Advisory Group who will advise health ministers later this month which of the 30 or so hospital redevelopment plans should get the green light. Only 18 will succeed.

The local plan identifies three options. The preferred option, signed up to by the health authorities, local authorities, Primary Care Groups and local NHS Trusts, requires a £190 million investment to succeed.

Its aims are to:

Increase the number of beds, thus reducing waiting time.s

Improve quality of care.

End the spectre of long trolley waits.

Galvanise A&E services.

Enhance partnership working with GPs and local authorities.

Makes patients' experiences more pleasant through better food and modern facilities.

Provides a cash-efficient solution.

The local NHS Trust management has a track record of meeting Government targets. The new facility would thus build on this foundation of strong local management.

If the green light is given, then local agencies will co-operate to turn the plan into reality.

The public will be kept informed every step of the way, and given the opportunity to comment on the development.

At this stage any comments members of the public would like to make can be addressed to: Ken Sanderson, chief executive of the St Helens and Knowsley Hospital NHS Trust at Whiston Hospital L35 5DR.