A controversial consultation by health bosses on the future of Pershore Cottage Hospital is under threat by council leaders.

Wychavon District Council could ask the Government to "call in" the consultation, with them planning to ask Health Secretary Alun Milburn if the actions of South Worcestershire Primary Care Trust are lawful.

The PCT wants to sell Pershore Cottage Hospital in a bid to pay off its debts and modernise services.

But the scrutiny team has proposed to either rebuild the existing hospital on the same site and provide a new health centre at the civic centre, or build a new hospital and health centre at the civic centre site.

Mid-Worcestershire MP Peter Luff has discovered the council's overview and scrutiny committee has powers to report the PCT to Mr Milburn if they are not satisfied that the consultation has been "adequate".

The council's health scrutiny team has produced two alternative options to the PCT proposal, which will be considered by councillors at a special full council meeting Tuesday, April 22.