THE public are being asked for their views about the future of a community hospital.

Ripon Community Hospital is having its old-fashioned wards modernised as part of a near-£500,000 project.

The work, which has been delayed after the discovery of asbestos in the 155-year-old building, has coincided with a consultation by the Craven, Harrogate and Rural District National Health Service Primary Care Trust.

One suggestion already made is that a new community hospital could be built on the car park opposite the present building in Firby Lane.

The trust, which also owns a community clinic, Fysche Hall, in Knaresborough, says in its public consultation leaflet that Ripon Community Hospital is an old building, poorly designed and expensive to maintain.

People will be asked if a new facility should be on a site in the city centre or on the outskirts. Views are also sought on public transport, parking and pedestrian access.

Public meetings will be held as follows: Masham Town Hall, October 13, noon; Pateley Bridge Scout Hall, October 20, noon; Boroughbridge High School, November 10, 7.30pm; Knaresborough Assembly Rooms, November 30, 1.30pm; and Ripon Town Hall, December 8, 7.30pm.