WORK on a major plan to expand facilities at Lydney's famed little hospital on the hill is set to begin within weeks. The project will bring five additional consulting rooms on line, plus further treatment facilities for out-patients.

Speaking on behalf of The Friends of Lydney Hospital, Mr Malcolm White said the plans had the full support of the Primary Care Trust and Forest planners.

"Everyone at the council has been extremely helpful. There is massive support for the project which will secure the future of Lydney and District Hospital for years to come," he said.

Mr White said it was anticipated that the completion of the expansion would result in many more consultants visiting patients in Lydney.

The new facilities could be the first phase of an ambitious plan to bring even more improvements to Lydney.

Mr White said that it was too early to discuss detail but he confirmed that talks were taking place which could involve major work on adjoining sites.

The "large expansion" to the out patients department would, he said, have an immediate impact for Forest patients making it easier and quicker for them to see consultants.

In addition to the five consulting rooms there will be treatment rooms, offices, staff training rooms and toilets.

"It is a major project which is being partially funded by the Friends. If all goes to plan we are hoping that work will start within six weeks," said Mr White.

He added that the Primary Care Trust, the consultants, nursing staff and Forest planners had given every assistance.

"There has been a real will to get this project up and running and I'm delighted to say that by working together I think we have achieved another milestone in the history of a hospital which is very much at the heart of the local community," said Mr White.

Visitors to the Friends of Lydney Hospital's annual fete on Saturday July 18 will have an opportunity to see the plans and meet with representatives from the PCT and the architects.