PLANS for a new Ribble Valley hospital moved a step closer today.
Communicare NHS Trust revealed it had completed a land deal for a site in Longridge for the development and the plan had been accepted by the Regional Office of the NHS Executive.
The Trust is merging Ribchester Community Hospital and Longridge Health Centre on one site in Longridge.
It was eight years ago when it was first announced the hospital would close subject to suitable alternative services being provided locally.
Communicare says it will be at least two years before the new hospital is built on land behind St Wilfrid's Church.
Chief executive Ken Johnson said: "I am delighted that at long last progress is being made.
"While we still have some way to go before the first patient is treated I am confident we can now build upon this successful start and fulfil our aim of creating better local services for the people of Longridge and Ribchester."
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