| NHS Tayside today said it was “fully committed” to the creation of a new purpose-built practice to replace the cramped Westgate site on the Ninewells Hospital campus and expected the project to move forward “swiftly” from April.
The health centre currently serves around 10,000 patients in the Menzieshill, Gowrie Park, Invergowrie and West End areas, but the layout of the building has caused problems for many years.
Five years ago, patients were invited to a meeting where plans for a new modern Westgate on ground next to the former Menzieshill House were displayed.
However, the project never got off the ground.
The delays led Westgate to publicly declare their dissatisfaction with the “saga” through their practice newsletter, stating “changes of government and now health board policy” had led to the long delays.
Dundee-based North East Scotland MSP Marlyn Glen wrote to NHS Tayside chairman Sandy Watson last week seeking clarification of the situation.
The Tele contacted NHS Tayside today and were told plans for the new centre — which is understood will be built by Sapphire Primary Care Developments — are advanced and are due to go before the authority’s Capital Scrutiny Committee next month.
Jane Duncan, senior communications manager at NHS Tayside, said, “We can confirm funding is already in place for the new Westgate development.
“Although there are a few details still to be worked through with the developer, a report will be submitted for consideration in April and it is expected plans for the new development will then move forward swiftly.
“Everyone involved in this project is keen to see it progress and doctors at Westgate are working closely with NHS Tayside to make sure detailed plans for the new building move forward as quickly as possible.
“We remain fully committed to this project which will ensure Westgate patients benefit from the most up-to-date, modern healthcare services.” |
