PROGRESS on plans to provide a new hospital in Pershore will be reported to a meeting of the board of South Worcestershire NHS Primary Care Trust next Wednesday.

Sir Michael Spicer, MP for West Worcestershire wrote to David Barlow, chairman of the PCT, seeking information on the current position.

He wrote: "As you know, the proposal to build on a site close to Wychavon Centre has almost universal backing.

"It certainly has my total support. My understanding is that the proposal is that it should be largely funded by Wychavon District Council. I assume the decision to go ahead will be made at your meeting on August 6."

Sir Michael explained: "It really is now time for the uncertainty about the future of the Pershore Hospital to be removed.

"The money is there; the need is there; the goodwill is there; all that remains is for the decision to be made at once. I will continue to use all my efforts to ensure that the authorities take this message on board."

Mike Ridley. PCT chief executive, said: "I am pleased to say the new Pershore Hospital development is going well and, in fact, progressing quite quickly.

"The Project team has met and an up to date report is an item on the agenda for the next public boar meeting on August 6."

Trish Freeman, chairman of The Friends of Pershore Cottage Hospital, said: "It is looking very exciting, positive and constructive and we hope progress will be made."