Background and current information such as reports from Overview and Scrutiny and Cabinet Committees, Orsett Hospital, the Integrated Medical Centres, press articles and case studies.

Members were referred to the background and current information such as reports from Overview and Scrutiny Committees, information on Orsett Hospital services and the proposed Integrated Medical Centres, press articles and case studies.

Councillor J Kent stated the information pack was useful and very comprehensive and was pleased to see that site visits would be arranged. Councillor J Kent stated that it was disappointing that no NHS representatives were present to answer Members questions and that Member’s disappointment should be minuted.

Councillor Holloway echoed Councillor J Kent’s comments and stated that input from NHS representatives was vital and stated her disappointment with the lack of NHS presence.

Roger Harris stated that Tom Abel and Mandy Ansell were both formally invited and a position statement had been provided and tabled for Members information.

Councillor Spillman stated that NHS representatives had to be held to account with regards to the bold statements that the NHS were making.

Councillor Holloway stated that there was cross party support for the integrated medical centres but a reassurance on the closure of Orsett Hospital was needed so that Members can then assure residents. More information was needed on the thought process and the rational of closing of Orsett Hospital so that Members can be reassured and then reassure residents.

Councillor Redsell stated that to retain resident support and confidence in the new integrated medical centres it was vital that information was forthcoming and to ensure the integrated medical centres had the services resident’s need.

Councillor Holloway asked what options had been considered for keeping Orsett Hospital open and had improving the transport links been considered.

Councillor Redsell as a member of the Bus User Group stated that the bus companies were getting involved and that conversations were taking place.