PCT's cost-cutting decision looms

The number of beds at Aldeburgh could be cut to about 20

A final decision on controversial cost-cutting measures by a trust in Suffolk, which is nearly £20m in debt, will be made next week.

The plans by Suffolk East Primary Care Trust (PCT) includes plans to close Hartismere and Bartlet hospitals and to cut the number of beds at Aldeburgh.

A spokesperson for the PCT said the plans wanted to give more care closer to home, rather than in hospitals.

Campaigners against cuts at Aldeburgh are now trying to buy the hospital.

Suffolk East PCT's recommendations include:

• The closure of Hayward day hospital
• Closure and sale of Hartismere Hospital
• Closure and sale of the Bartlet Hospital
• Closure of Kesgrave, Saxmundham and Violet Hill day hospitals
• Closure of Pines occupational therapy facility
• Closure of the Old Fox Yard Clubhouse Stowmarket
• The continued provision and enhancement of services provided within the community
• Reducing the number of beds at Aldeburgh hospital to about 20
• A reduction in the number of inpatient beds at Felixstowe General Hospital.

Suffolk East PCT's chief executive Carole Taylor-Brown said they had consulted local people.

"We have listened to what people have told us and made significant changes in the recommendations to the trust boards which address many of the concerns and issues raised," she said.

If approved, the trust recommends that the proposals be introduced over a long period and should be monitored, Mrs Taylor-Brown said.

NHS trust boards in east Suffolk have been asked to decide by 25 January.