Hospital cuts will seriously affect the future of Sussex's economy, according to a Government-funded organisation.

James Braithwaite, chairman of South East England Development Agency (SEEDA), warned businesses would be less likely to settle in areas where there were no adequate hospital services.

Mr Braithwaite was speaking at a press conference called to highlight concerns from businesses across the county about a future NHS consultation that could lead to vital hospital facilities being cut.

Those at risk of losing services such as accident and emergency and maternity include Worthing Hospital, St Richard's in Chichester, Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath, Eastbourne District General Hospital and the Conquest Hospital in St Leonards.

Campaigners warn lives will be put at risk if patients face longer journeys for urgent treatment and other hospitals such as the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton will not be able to cope with the extra demand.

They also say the changes are about helping the NHS in Sussex, which is millions of pounds in debt, to save money.

Mr Braithwaite said hospitals were a vital pillar not just of key services valued by the community but also a crucial source of employment and a link to cutting- edge medical research. He said the downgrading would impede the South East region's economic growth.

He said: "Quality of life, including excellent healthcare, is critical to the South East's competitive advantage and any reorganisation of hospitals in the region must ensure the quality and accessibility of services is maintained.

"Reductions in services will be regretted by local communities and any requirement to travel further for A&E or maternity services will cause concern and anxiety as well as increasing traffic flows on already congested roads."

Mr Braithwaite also emphasised the importance of investment in healthcare and public services as part of SEEDA's Regional Economic Strategy.

He said: "From a business perspective the research and development attracted by hospitals in the region, as well as their close ties to universities and medical schools, make them key to promoting the South East's worldclass innovation and science agenda."

Mr Braithwaite was joined by Worthing's two MPs Peter Bottomley and Tim Loughton, mayor Tom Wye and the business group Worthing First.

Worthing Hospital consultant Jim English and Chichester businessman Ewan Phillips also spoke at the event.

West Sussex Primary Care Trust is responsible for drawing up the proposals for the consultation.

Chief executive John Wilderspin said: "We are happy to talk to local businesses about the review of local health services and what the implications might be for the local economy.

"Through organisations such as the Chamber of Commerce we have been keeping local businesses informed."

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