THE FIRST phase of work to improve Stratton Hospital near Bude is ready to start, now that national funding has been agreed for this year.

NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly has confirmed that phase one of the work can now go ahead, subject to planning permission being granted.

The primary care trust has been working with Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Community Health Services and the local League of Friends to plan significant improvements to Stratton Hospital.

Kevin Baber, the managing director of Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Community Health Services, said: "This is among the oldest community hospitals in the country. These improvements will make a significant difference to the quality and accessibility of services and the hospital experience for patients in North Cornwall.

"I am delighted that the work can now proceed, subject to planning consent. There will inevitably be some disruption for patients to contend with while the work is on-going and we will do everything we can to mitigate any impact."

Candy Baker, the chairman of the League of Friends for Stratton Hospital, said: "We are delighted that the outcome of considerable negotiations over a long period of time, is the news that the improvements to our local treasured hospital are soon to begin, subject to planning permission.

"The League have been very much the voice of the local public and their support in all that we try to do is invaluable. I am glad that at last we can look forward to the day when we can celebrate the completion of the work, which will benefit many patients, families and carers and of course the working environment for the staff."

Phase one will see improvements to the Physiotherapy Department. The Minor Injuries Unit will be moved nearer to the existing entrance of the hospital and the X-Ray Department, so that patients can use these facilities more easily, rather than having to go through the in-patient area.

This follows a public meeting in Bude in June, where the proposals were discussed with local people.

The second phase is planned to start in April 2011 and has been made possible by the generous commitment from the League of Friends of Stratton Hospital to raise £1 million towards the scheme.

It will involve completely rebuilding and modernising the in-patient facilities, with the creation of additional rooms for palliative care.

NHS funding towards the second phase is expected as part of the primary care trust's 2011-12 capital investment.