Views are sought on which services should be located at Ayr Hospital

Dr Robert Masterton, executive medical director, said the proposals would "deliver safe, quick, high-quality care round the clock."

They include a �35m investment to centralise some services at Ayr Hospital and �7m to locate others at Crosshouse Hospital in Kilmarnock.

People can have their say until 21 July and public meetings will be held.

Every household in Ayrshire and Arran will receive a 16-page booklet outlining the plans.

Under the proposals, Ayr Hospital will host an Ayrshire-wide breast service, a specialist cancer unit and treat general surgery inpatients.

It is also the "preferred site" for a major joint replacement service and keyhole surgery.

Crosshouse Hospital could house a cataract service under the plans.

'Excellent opportunity'

A decision has still to be made on where to locate dermatology, gynaecology and blood cancer services.

The consultation will also examine the location of rehabilitation services for stroke, elderly and orthopaedic patients.

Dr Masterton added: "This is an excellent opportunity for local communities and staff to become directly involved in the development of proposals."

The drive comes after NHS Ayrshire and Arran consulted on accident and emergency proposals.

Proposals to create five community casualty units and centre "acute emergency care" on Crosshouse Hospital led to protests.