The beds were full in January

The 20-bed temporary ward at the Great Western would mean more surgery for patients, say the hospital.

They also claim it would mean fewer waits on trolleys for emergency admissions

But the MP for North Wiltshire, James Gray, criticised the scheme, saying it shows "bad planning".

'Great help'

In a letter to GPs in January, the Great Western admitted its bed situation was "untenable"

The letter said all beds were full, and that elective and urgent surgery had been cancelled

Chiseldon GP Chris Barry says the ward is needed in response to government targets that have moved on since the hospital was planned.

"The government keeps putting out targets aimed at reducing waiting lists.

"Nothing will be enough - short of spending vast amounts of money. But 20 more beds will help a great deal," he added.