OFFICIALS behind the new public inquiry into standards of care at Stafford Hospital have announced the venue for the hearing.

The Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust Public Inquiry, which is set to begin hearing evidence next month , will take place at Stafford Borough Council's offices at the Civic Centre, in Riverside.

The fresh inquiry was ordered in July by health secretary, Andrew Lansley, who felt that a previous investigation last year did not look closely enough at the role of regulatory bodies in monitoring the standards of patient care at the hospital.

The earlier inquiry was prompted by a damning report from the Healthcare Commission, which found that between 400 and 1,200 more patients than expected died at the hospital between 2005 and 2008.

Inquiry chairman Robert Francis QC said: "I am delighted that we have been able to find a suitable location in Stafford and hope to begin the hearings in mid-October.

"The Inquiry has an obligation to conduct its proceedings efficiently and proportionately, as well as to do its best to meet the needs of members of the public, interested parties, witnesses and the media, and to have regard to the cost to the public purse.

"I am really pleased to have found a venue that meets all our requirements whilst remaining close to those affected by the events."

Stafford Borough Council leader Mike Heenan, said: "We are pleased we have been able to assist the inquiry team by providing the Civic Centre as a venue for this hearing.

"I know how important it is to have the inquiry in Stafford at a venue that was accessible to everybody who will be involved in these proceedings."