Foysol Choudhury MSP has called for greater clarity and faster progress on plans for a new East Calder Health Centre, following a roundtable meeting at the Scottish Parliament today.
The meeting brought together elected representatives, NHS Lothian officials, local campaigners and community leaders to discuss the future of primary and community healthcare provision in the area and agree next steps.
The Scottish Government has confirmed that work will begin to develop detailed plans for new primary and community care infrastructure in East Calder. This progress reflects the efforts of dedicated local campaigners, alongside the continued support of MPs and MSPs.
“I was pleased to meet with local campaigners to discuss the future of East Calder Health Centre and the next steps for our community,” said Mr Choudhury. “It is encouraging to see progress being made, and I want to thank everyone who has worked so hard to get us to this point.”
Mr Choudhury has welcomed recent correspondence from the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Neil Gray. “I am pleased that the Cabinet Secretary recognises East Calder as a key focus and that his team is working with NHS Lothian closely to ensure this project can progress.” he said.
He added that recent updates from NHS Lothian confirm that East Calder remains a central priority but stressed that significant questions remain unanswered.
“Local residents deserve clarity,” Mr Choudhury added. “We need to know when funding will be confirmed and when a timetable will be put in place for developing a business case. We also need transparency about the budget that has been allocated and what it will cover. Most importantly, we need a clear date for when construction of new facilities will begin.”
With the area experiencing rapid population growth, pressure on existing health services continues to increase. “While progress is being made, it is simply not happening quickly enough,” he said.
“The need for improved health facilities is urgent. Our community deserves timely action, not ongoing uncertainty. I will continue to press the Scottish Government and NHS Lothian for clear answers and real improvements on behalf of local residents.”
