FORESTERS are being asked what services they think should be available when the area’s new hospital opens in a few years time.

The latest consultation is centred on some of the key considerations that will need to be taken into account for the new hospital including in-patient services, out-patient services such as physiotherapy, links with GP practices and other services such as pharmacies and diagnostic tests such as x-rays and blood tests.

Health chiefs have again stressed that no decision has been taken on the controversial issue of bed numbers at the hospital.

The hospital will be built in the Cinderford area, although no specific site has been announced, and is due to be open by 2023.

It will replace Lydney and The Dilke hospitals despite a community campaign to retain them.

A booklet, including a questionnaire, is available online and at libraries, surgeries, pharmacies, hospitals or council offices.

Chief Executive of Gloucestershire Care Services NHS Trust, Paul Roberts, said: “The chance to build a new hospital is a rare opportunity, and we want to make the best decisions so that the hospital provides services and facilities which people need and value.

“We also need it to work alongside the other services and facilities in the Forest of Dean and the county, both now and in the future.

“Previous engagement has been lively, reasoned and informative.

“There are strong views about the best way forward and we are always open to hearing what the community has to say. So please take the time to read the information and participate.”

Local GP and clinical commissioning lead for the Forest at the Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group Dr Lawrence Fielder said: “Last year a citizens’ jury considered the evidence and decided the best location for a new hospital was Cinderford.

“We are continuing this dialogue to help plan the hospital services alongside the ongoing development of other services in the locality, including GP services and our community based teams. We welcome everyone’s views on how best to do this.”

People have until Monday, October 14 to share their views with NHS Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group and Gloucestershire Care Services NHS Trust.