Readers have been sharing their reactions to a proposed new hospital building

Outline planning permission is being sought for an urgent treatment centre on the grounds of Cumberland Infirmary.

The proposed development, at Carlisle's Newtown Road hospital, aims to alleviate lengthy waiting times and the high demand that the existing accident and emergency (A&E) department contends with.

The application has been submitted to Cumberland Council by Summit Town Planning on behalf of the North Cumbria Integrated Care Trust on July 15.

The outline application indicates that the new treatment centre would stand adjacent to the current A&E department.

To do so, it proposes a redevelopment of the current car park area.

The application assures that sufficient ambulance and staff parking will be provided for the treatment centre, and the car parking spaces to be lost in the process will be moved within the hospital grounds, subject to a separate planning application. 

READ MORE: Outline permission sought for urgent treatment centre at hospital

The idea is that this building would provide extra support for people who need urgent care, but not care at the same level as A&E.

David Boyes said the plan is 'excellent', and added: "Just hope there are sufficient, appropriately trained staff."

Geraldine Moore echoed David Boyes' remarks on it being 'excellent', while Carole Atkinson said: "Hope it works, very good idea."

Debbie Graham was concerned about one element: "Where do people park their cars? 

"I'm in favour of the building but parking is such a nightmare."

Mary Watters said: "West Cumbria forgotten again," while William Townsley replied: "I'm sure I've just seen another phase at Whitehaven nearly completed."

READ MORE: A sneak peek inside the £40m West Cumberland Hospital redevelopment