WORK could begin on Kington's new health and social care centre within the next couple of months.
If all goes to plan, the community hospital and social service facility, to be built in the town on land opposite the existing hospital, could be open for business early next year.
That's the prediction following the latest round of contract negotiations between Herefordshire Health Authority, Herefordshire Council, Herefordshire Primary Care Trust and Blanchworth Care.
The health authority and primary care trust are in discussions with UNISON over terms and conditions of NHS nursing staff planning to transfer to Gloucestershire-based Blanchworth Care.
The Blanchworth scheme proposes a public-private partnership to provide NHS and council care under one roof.
It is also in discussion with the Government's Actuarial Department to determine an appropriate package.
The development will comprise 10 beds for GP admissions, age care, acute hospital discharges and a 24-hour minor injury unit.
Outpatient facilities will include consultant clinics and physiotherapy. The complex will also become a base for health visitors, district nurses and social workers to give integrated patient care.
On top of all this, social services will commission 12 dual registration beds, some day care places and six EMI beds.
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