A PUBLIC meeting in Winsford next week could be the first step in the rejuvenation of a disused health centre.

Elmhurst, based in Roehurst Lane, used to provide accommodation for more than 30 elderly people as a community support centre but closed down four years ago.

Cheshire County Council still owns the vacant building and health chiefs from Central Cheshire Primary Care Trust (CCPCT) want to transform it into an 'intermediate care centre' where people will receive care after hospital before returning home.

CCPCT claims this support is often necessary for older people after a period of illness or incapacity that resulted in a hospital stay.

The first step is a consultation meeting at the Dingle Centre in High Street, from 2pm to 4pm on Monday, June 21, where people will be able to hear the plans for the centre and put forward their own ideas for Elmhurst.

Richard Merson, the primary care trust's project leader, said: "We're very pleased to be developing Elmhurst, in partnership with social services and Mid Cheshire Hospitals Trust, into a much-needed intermediate care centre.

"We are still in the early stages of design and want to get people's opinions and ideas and would like to develop a centre where people who may need this service feel they have made a real contribution to its design and operation."

Clr Tony Hooton was sceptical that Elmhurst would be resurrected when the idea was mooted last December but has been encouraged by the news.

He said: "I am pleased with the way it is starting to come together at last.

"I also believe - but I am not absolutely certain - that the county council and health authorities have agreed a financial package so that the scheme can go ahead in the autumn."

rfraser@guardiangrp.co.uk