PEOPLE are to be given a chance to have a say in plans to build a health centre in the heart of their town.

Four GP practices could be housed in the new complex being proposed for the centre of Hartlepool, along with a dentist, pharmacist and optician.

The facility could provide diagnostic and treatment facilities, and a range of community health services, including optometry, podiatry, and physiotherapy.

Consultation is under way for the development, earmarked for the site of the former Barlow's printing works, in Park Road.

Hartlepool Primary Care Trust (PCT) said that having a major health centre in the town means more health services in the community could be provided, while some treatments that are usually provided in hospital could be delivered more quickly and conveniently.

The development is subject to obtaining agreement on time scales, costs and the involvement of partner organisations.

Copies of the consultation document and summary leaflet are available in GP surgeries and libraries. For a copy of either, contact Hartlepool PCT's patient advice and officer on (01429) 287144.

Consultation meetings will take place at Hartlepool's Grand Hotel on Wednesday, from 6pm until 8pm, the Activ8 Centre on Tuesday, March 21, from 3pm to 5pm, and the Belle Vue Centre on Thursday, March 30, from 10am until noon