MP launches petition and will 'fight tooth and nail' against any merger of Lancaster and Preston hospitals

Concerns have been raised that this would move acute services even further away from residents in the South Lakes.

Last week in the House of Commons, Mr Farron raised fears about the plans with Health Secretary Matt Hancock who confirmed that replacing both hospitals with a single site was on the agenda.

University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay Trust chief executive Aaron Cummins said that at the moment, nothing has changed, and that he doesn't anticipate any plans being ready to discuss with the public until around November 2021, and any building to start until 2025.

Mr Farron said: “Residents here in the South Lakes already have to travel some of the longest distances for hospital treatment in England – and in an emergency the nearest A&E department for much of the area is in Lancaster.

“Be in no doubt - we will fight tooth and nail to stop the Government moving services even further away.

“I would strongly encourage everyone who cares about this to join our campaign and sign the petition today.”

The petition is HERE.