HOSPITAL bosses are set to take a massive step forward today (Wednesday) in shutting down the QE2's maternity unit. For a �16.4m business case for centralising the service at the Lister Hospital in Stevenage is set to be approved. The boards of the East a

HOSPITAL bosses are set to take a massive step forward today (Wednesday) in shutting down the QE2's maternity unit.

For a �16.4m business case for centralising the service at the Lister Hospital in Stevenage is set to be approved.

The boards of the East and North Herts NHS Trust and PCT will meet to discuss plans for the two-storey expansion of Lister's current unit and, if approved as expected, will then submit the plans to the East of England Strategic Health Authority for final approval.

The new facilities will support more than 5,500 births a year and will include a midwife-led unit, a consultant-led unit, new delivery rooms and neonatal cots.

If the plans are approved, work is expected to start at the Lister by July.

The new unit will be fully functioning from May 2011 - bringing an end to the QE2 Hospital's maternity ward.

Ante and postnatal care will continue to be provided at the WGC hospital.

NHS chief executive Nick Carver said the trust was "preparing to provide leading-edge services to pregnant women".