Campaigners have welcomed the news of a two-week extension to the consultation on the proposed closure of services at Wanstead Hospital.

Redbridge Clinical Commissioning Group (RCCG) is looking to close Heronwood and Galleon Unit at Wanstead Hospital in Makepeace Road, Wanstead, and transfer its 48 care beds to King George Hospital in Goodmayes.

Wanstead Hospital's general hospital was closed in 1991, but now the two remaining units are being earmarked for closure.

The consultation period was due to close on October 1 but is now closing on 5pm on October 15.

Community group Wanstead and Snaresbrook Residents' Association (WASRA) has organised a public meeting on the proposal at 7.30pm tomorrow in The George Pub, in High Street, Wanstead.

Wanstead MP John Cryer and Redbridge health cabinet member Wes Streeting will be attending the meeting.

Member Helen Zammett said: “The two-week extension is obviously a good thing and it is encouraging news.

“But this does not change the fact we are unhappy at the timing of the consultation when people where going to holiday in July and tomorrow’s meeting will hopefully get members of the public involved.

“Many people don’t know about this so the meeting will give us the chance to spread the message, because it does seem they are putting nearly £1 million of savings ahead of patient care."

RCCG denies these accusations and said patients would get better care in the new system.