AN £8 million package to sink funds into community based health services in Lancaster and Morecambe was unveiled by health bosses this week.

With the imminent closure of the Lancaster Moor Hospital, health chiefs have outlined how they are going to provide those services through surgeries and neighbourhood centres.

The current plan falls in line with Lancaster Priority Services NHS Trust's five year strategy until 2001. The Trust's chief executive David Jordison said they hoped to provide superb new facilities. The proposals include:

New community-based continuing care services for the elderly in new units - 80 beds and 60 day care centres in Morecambe and Lancaster

Plans a new health resource centre in Lancaster and Morecambe

Work closely with GPs and fundholders to meet new and changing needs for patients

Work with Morecambe Bay Health Authority for better health within national and local priorities

Improve quality of services and develop research for better health care

Plan new community based Trust offices

Meet NHS financial targets

Mr Jordison added: "Moving these services into the community from Lancaster Moor Hospital will allow us to close the old institution now unsuitable for 21st century health care. We shall retain excellent facilities at Ridge Lea Hospital for mental health acute in-patient care."

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