Central Beds Council Leader Column: A step forward for health

The Local NHS has taken a significant step forward in supporting new health facilities in our area. This is without doubt, a step in the right direction. but it still doesn't go as far as we'd like.   

For years, residents and the council have made the case for better access to healthcare closer to home. That is why we were deeply concerned when the concept of local 'health hubs' was set aside three years ago. These hubs bring together GPs, community services, diagnostics and more under one roof, offering a practical, modern solution to meeting the needs of our communities.  

Encouragingly, the national conversation has shifted. The Government’s renewed focus on 'Neighbourhood Health Centres' reflects much of what we have long argued for. And we have worked hard to ensure Central Bedfordshire is part of that conversation.  

The latest development shows we are being heard. The Central East Integrated Care Board (ICB) has included Biggleswade, Leighton Buzzard, Houghton Regis and Ampthill/Flitwick in its proposed list of locations for new facilities, alongside the potential new settlement at Tempsford. That is significant progress.  

However, this is certainly not the finish line. 

At the moment this are still aspirational proposals and not definitive plans. Our residents deserve clarity, transparency and ambition. We must not settle for the minimum.   

The reality is there will be fierce competition for what funding there is, and If we want Central Bedfordshire to secure the best new facilities, we must continue to make our voices heard.  

I have already written to Government setting out our case. But this is not something the council can achieve alone. Public support matters.  

This is where our communities have always been at their strongest. By continuing to champion the needs of our towns, speaking up at every opportunity, and showing the strength of local feeling, we can keep this issue firmly on the agenda. Let’s maintain the momentum, keep pressing the case, and ensure our voices are heard loud and clear until we secure the healthcare our residents deserve.