Response to NHS Plans

Response to NHS plans relating to Macclesfield Hospital

Cheshire East Council leader Rachel Bailey, said: "While this council has been a partner with the clinical commissioning groups in some projects delivered locally, it has not, and will not support Macclesfield hospital having its accident and emergency unit downgraded to a minor injury unit."

"This council has a clear policy of putting its residents first and this plan does not meet that basic need. We have spoken to the clinical commissioning group and said that it is essential that we work together closely to ensure that the needs of our residents are met.

"I have also been quite clear that together, we must explore further options to make the local NHS more sustainable. The investment in jobs, housing, and employment in our borough, means that we need to redouble our efforts to promote the retention of specialisms in the NHS, not reduce them.

"A longer term view needs to be taken for the sustainability of our borough, I believe that our very successful economy and our strong communities deserve specialisms, not least in providing elderly and mental health wellbeing.

"All these plans need to properly take into account the strong likelihood of having an increased population and a successful economy, which is a stated ambition of this council.

"The council is committed to working in partnership with our NHS colleagues to help transform services to meet local needs."

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