THE Oldham Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) has responded to the heavy backlash it is facing over its decision to scrap plans for a new Shaw and Crompton Health Centre.

The CCG announced it was not moving forward with the scheme due to increases in ‘costs and inflation’ in a bombshell announcement over Zoom last month.

The move was met by a chorus of criticism from Oldham’s political groups.

Shadow cabinet member for health and social, Liberal Democrat Crompton councillor, Louie Hamblett demanded an ‘urgent meeting’ so the decision could be ‘justified and fully explained.’

Last week Cllr Hamblett met CCG representatives along with Shaw councillor and Liberal Democrat leader Howard Sykes.

In a letter following the meeting, the CCG said, “the robust challenge” from elected officials was “more than heard” and that the group was “clear about the feeling of disappointment within the community,” adding: “We too are frustrated and disappointed in equal measure.”

The letter, signed by Mike Barker, accountable officer NHS Oldham CCG, also clarified that at no point had the CCG said it “was not committed to resolving the complications” regarding the new health centre, and that it was working with Oldham Council, the landowners of the new health centre site, to do so, as well as The Village Practise which occupies the current building and Oak Gables.

The letter adds that the CCG understands the 15-year history behind the development, recognises the need for a new facility in Shaw, and remains “committed to trying to make that a reality”.

“We in the CCG do not believe all is lost yet. What has happened is the original business case and therefore design concept has become unaffordable,” the letter reads.

The CCG is set to review the cost increase, hold further discussions with the developer to revise the building and reduce the costs by making changes to the design and open a dialogue with NHS England regarding a capital grant.

Welcoming the CCG’s letter, councillor Sykes said: “The CCG have indicated the steps it will take to move this situation forward, and we are clear that the focus must be on delivering the modern health care facility that our communities deserve.

"With hundreds of new homes being built in the area, we cannot afford for the CCG and others to sit on their hands.”