The findings of the North East Review were due to be presented to health chiefs next month.

West Sussex Primary Care Trust (PCT) said it pushed the date back to allow more time to consult.

North East Review director Brian Hughes said: "We want to ensure there is sufficient time for stakeholders to consult with those they represent on the draft report and proposed recommendations.

"The new date also allows time for an additional workshop for the panel of experts and stakeholders to look at hospital services, and consider in more detail their capacity and capability for delivering services as well as addressing the key issue of how people access these services.

"Also this new timescale would fit better with the deadlines of the West Sussex Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the North East Review Taskforce."

The review has attracted interest from the public, local MPs and many stakeholders since it began in May this year.

A final report and proposed recommendations will be presented to PCT board on January 29.

The PCT had originally planned to present these at the November Board meeting.

Further information about the review can be found at www.westsussexpct.nhs.uk/about-us/north-east-review.

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