A NEW chief executive to steer the troubled St Helens Clinical Commissioning Group, which is facing a £12.5m funding black hole, is soon to be appointed.

The Star understands that a replacement has been selected and a final decision on that appointment now rests with NHS England.

The appointment follows the resignation of Professor Steve Cox, after the group was labelled as 'inadequate' following a year-end assessment by NHS England.

The resignation also came weeks after the CCG announced controversial plans to suspend some services in the face of the enormous funding crisis.

A source who spoke to the Star said: "The commissioning board has selected a new person but that decision has to go to NHS England for approval."

When the Star contacted St Helens Council to ask about possible involvement in turning around the troubled group, a spokeswoman said: "We plan to work hand in hand with the CCG, but with them taking the lead as to what will happen in the future."

A spokeswoman for the CCG told the Star they would not be commenting ahead of the appointment of Professor Cox's replacement.

To have a say on the CCG's proposals online, until Wednesday, October 5, go to surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ZZ7G5ZV. For a paper version, email engagement@sthelensccg.nhs.uk.