Health services decision 'imminent'

The future of health services in Malvern is to become much clearer following what has been described as a "ground breaking" deal between the local council and health officials.

Malvern Hills District Council has agreed to provide the South Worcestershire Primary Care Trust with two acres of land where a new health centre can be built.

The move follows months of wrangling from officials and opposition from locals about the re-siting of GP services at Barnards Green and Malvern Link at Townsend Way.

Many thought it was too far out and would lead to access problems for patients.

But under the terms of the new proposal, Malvern Hills District Council will sell the Trust the land at its depot in Pickersleigh Road for a new health centre which would be used by medical staff from the two practices.

A final decision is due at a meeting on 4 June when the details of a timetable for rebuilding the long-awaited community hospital at Seaford Court will also be discussed.