Public consultation starts next week over plans for a £6.3 million hospital.

The development in Littlehampton would replace the existing Zachary Merton Hospital in Rustington and Littlehampton Hospital.

The scheme has the backing of health officials at Adur, Arun and Worthing Primary Care Trust.

The new hospital would have 44 beds and an enhanced community team of district nurses and therapists.

It would serve the people of Littlehampton, Rustington, East Preston and Angmering.

Public consultation meetings will be held at East Preston Village Hall, Sea Road, East Preston, on March 20 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm; Rustington Church Hall, The Street, Rustington, on March 25 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm; Littlehampton Town Council, Church Street, Littlehampton, on April 10 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm; Angmering Sports and Social Club, Decoy Drive, Angmering, on April 23 from 2.30pm to 4.30pm and Ferring Village Hall, Ferring Street, Ferring on April 28 from 2.30pm to 4.30pm.

The final decision will be made by the Strategic Health Authority.