Press Release: Residents-for-Uttlesford receives assurance from NHS about future of Saffron Walden Hospital

Monday 9th February 2015, Saffron Walden: Residents-for-Uttlesford (R4U), the local advocacy party for towns and villages, announces that it has received assurances from the NHS about the future of the Radwinter Rd Community Hospital in Saffron Walden. R4U Health and Families Team members and Prospective Candidates (L-R) Sharon Morris, Aisha Anjum, Cllr Heather Asker with R4U chair Cllr John Lodge at Saffron Walden Community Hospital. The future of the hospital has been in question for some time with fears that it may be closed and the site turned into housing. At a recent meeting held by the NHS West Essex Clinical Commissioning Group in Saffron Walden, R4U’s chairman, County Councillor John Lodge sought and received clarity and confirmation about the hospital’s future on behalf of the residents of Saffron Walden and the surrounding villages.

Cllr John Lodge of R4U stated “It is great news that the NHS Clinical Commissioning Group have confirmed their long-term commitment to the Community Hospital in Saffron Walden and that its future is assured. I have also asked that they consider expanding the facility to include the provision of a new doctor’s surgery and medical centre; the NHS has indicated that they will start work on a proposal for this within six to twelve months.”

Prospective district council candidate Sharon Morris is an R4U spokesperson on local health issues and the joint organiser of the Saffron Walden Boobiebellion event to raise awareness of breast cancer. She said “We are delighted that the NHS has confirmed that this important facility is to be maintained for the community. It undertakes many tests and procedures, provides important care in the local area and can take on an expanded role.”