WORK to build Clevedon’s new �19million community hospital could start in December.
The facility at Millcross will be funded and built by a private sector partner and then leased back to NHS North Somerset.
In January, the health authority advertised for such a partner and the companies that responded have been narrowed down to a shortlist which is currently being evaluated.
After a preferred bidder has been selected later this month, final approval will need to be given by the Strategic Health Authority in September.
The detailed planning of the work will then take place before construction starts in December or January.
It was originally hoped work could start in November but NHS North Somerset says it will still meet the target completion date in summer 2013.
When work begins it will see the demolition of the current properties at the site, including the former Kwik Save, before building can start.
Once complete, the hospital will feature facilities for outpatient treatment, therapies, rehabilitation, diagnostics and a minor injuries unit on the ground floor and 24 individual inpatient rooms on the first floor.
Outside there will be 80 public car parking spaces and landscaped gardens.
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