HEALTH chiefs are to discuss controversial changes to mental health services in Bolton.

The Bolton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) will discuss proposals put forward Greater Manchester West Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMW) — which could see 50 mental health beds close at the Royal Bolton Hospital.

Instead of receiving treatment in hospital, patients can be looked after in their own homes with a new 24-hour service — or they will be taken to Woodlands Hospital in Little Hulton.

The changes will save £2.1 million, but health chiefs have committed to invest £1.15 million in community services, including £307,000 in the home-based treatment team.

Another £5.86 million will be spent rebuilding the Woodlands site.

CCGs in Bolton, Salford and Trafford were in discussions with GMW to move services into the community.

Yet Trafford CCG backed out because of strong opposition from local councillors.

Bolton’s board of commissioners will discuss the latest issues at their next public meeting from 12.30pm on Friday at the Friends Meeting House in Silverwell Street, Bolton.

A consultation on the proposals will run until March.

For more information go to gmw.nhs.uk.