Health chiefs say redeveloping Ilkley’s outdated Coronation Hospital is the answer to providing long-awaited medical facilities in the town.

The Strategic Partnering Board, which is masterminding plans for a replacement hospital is recommending development of the hospital site in Springs Lane.

Primary care trust NHS Bradford and Airedale said the board agreed it would be the most affordable option and the size would be adequate.

The Trust also unveiled additional healthcare services proposed for the new facility, including a minor surgery suite, expansion of elderly day care, support for patients with chronic long-term conditions, and a diagnostic suite for ultrasound, X-rays, and other tests.

The recommendation is expected to go before NHS Bradford and Airedale’s board meeting on September 28, and could go before Bradford Council in the autumn.

The hospital is now unlikely to be rebuilt on Bradford Council-owned land on Leeds Road.

Director of primary care for NHS Bradford and Airedale Helen Hirst said: “Our aim is to build the best possible centre and we are keen to progress this development as soon as possible.”

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