Leaflets were sent to every house in the area

Over three months, people have had the chance to give their views on the review headed by Prof Sir Ara Darzi.

It recommended a centre of excellence in women's and children's services at Hartlepool's University hospital.

But there have been concerns that the proposed changes would mean patients living in nearby Stockton would face long journeys.

During the study, a campaign was run urging the retention of Hartlepool's main hospital over fears it would be closed in favour of a £175m facility in Stockton.

Held protest

But the review recommended the site remain with the creation of additional centres of excellence.

The plans include moving consultant-led maternity and paediatric services, including the special care baby unit, from Stockton's North Tees Hospital.

Protestors fighting to keep the North Tees services held a protest in November and a petition was signed by 14,000 people.

Leaflets setting out Prof Darzi's recommendations were sent to every house in the area and there were a series of consultation meetings.