A campaign was mounted to retain Hartlepool's main hospital

An 11-month study recommended the creation of a centre of excellence in women's and children's services at Hartlepool's University Hospital.

But the review, headed by Professor Ara Darzi, was questioned by some who felt it could have an adverse impact on existing services in nearby Stockton.

Health trust bosses in the area are to discuss the review on 26 August.

Campaign mounted

Stockton Council leader Bob Gibson has already expressed concern at the proposals, which he claims would mean long journeys for local patients.

Health trust bosses from Hartlepool, Stockton and Middlesbrough now plan to launch a further public consultation on the review in September.

A campaign was mounted during the review of services, urging the retention of Hartlepool's main hospital, amid fears it would be closed in favour of a new �175m facility near Stockton.

The County Durham and Tees Valley Strategic Health Authority, which is organising the 26 August event, is to spearhead a three-month series of public meetings to gauge reaction to Prof Darzi's conclusions.