MALMESBURY Mayor John Bowen said he was very positive about the future of Malmesbury Hospital after discussions with the primary care trust.
Although he would not be pinned down on the specifics of discussions with the chief executive of the PCT, Barbara Smith, he said: "They are listening very seriously to what we are saying and we are very positive about the future of Malmesbury Hospital. I think it will provide health care the people of Malmesbury need and deserve."
Under plans revealed last month by Kennet and North Wiltshire Primary Care Trust, Malmesbury Hospital would be reduced to a GP surgery, health centre and nursing home by 2005. In addition to the care home, the plans will see all minor injury unit beds gone by 2005, with a reduction from 19 beds to ten over the next year.
The hospital would also lose most outpatient services, with support through 24-hour enhanced home care nursing.
Diagnostic, day surgery and in patient services will be phased out in the next two years.
Malmesbury Hospital League of Friends are considering a name change because they feel what is left could not be considered a hospital.
The PCT board will make a final decision on the future of the hospital on May 22.
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