30th October 2023
UPDATE
The march described below took place in, mainly, bright sunshine, and was attended by about 200 residents. Click here to see more pictures.
Residents of Burnham-on-Crouch are expected to gather at the Burnham Surgery on Saturday, 4th November, at midday, to protest against any plans to move the surgery out to the Burnham Waters site at the entrance to the town.
The plan is to walk to Burnham Waters in part to demonstrate the difficulties that some patients will face should the surgery be moved.
Please note – this is not an event organised by the town council but it is of significant interest to residents.
NHS statement
Meanwhile, the NHS has contacted Burnham Town Council with the following statement:
‘We have been made aware of some concern in the local communities regarding a rumours of plans to relocate the Burnham GP Surgery. There is a public march planned for the 4th November from the current GP practice in Foundry Lane to the Burnham Waters site.
To help allay concerns, I wanted to take the time to write to you to confirm that we have not received any formal proposals from the GP practice.
We are aware that Burnham Surgery recognises the need to expand its premises to meet the growing needs of the community and has previously been exploring a range of options that might support that ambition.
Should any of those options be considered viable and formally proposed by the GP practice to the Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board then there would be a duty to involve the public before any formal decisions can be made.
When and if options are formally proposed, the Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board will be looking to ensure the GP practice discharges their duty to involve their patients.
Please be assured that the duty and shared commitment of all NHS organisations involved is to ensure the people of Burnham-on-Crouch and the surrounding area receive high-quality healthcare both now and in the future.
I would be grateful if you could help us to reassure local residents who may be concerned about the circulating rumours.
Kate Butcher, Deputy Alliance Director
Mid Essex Alliance