Rugby council acknowledges that borough's growth is putting pressure on NHS services - here's what is going to be done

Cllr Brown and Cllr O’Rourke previously planned to put forward a motion calling on the council to request the return of an ambulance hub in Rugby.

But the meeting that motion was originally due to be heard in came during the election period – so ‘purdah’ prevented it from being debated.

But, at Rugby’s full council meeting on December 17 the election law had lifted - so councillors were free to discuss the motion.

This resulted in Cllr Roodhouse and Cllr Lawrence proposing an amendment to the original proposal.

Councillors voted in favour of the motion and the amendment – which now means actions will be taken, including: “The senior management team of St Cross be invited to present future plans and discuss the implications on medical services for Rugby and its growing population.

“The West Midlands Ambulance Service be invited to present to council how it operates in the Rugby area, and its plans to deal with a growing number of residents.”

The motion also states: “The council recognises that Rugby St Cross has been awarded “good” by the Care Quality Commission for the services it currently

provides.

“However, it is acknowledged that there is more to be done in terms of urgent care provision, local ambulance services and improved access to accident and emergency care, especially for children and the most vulnerable.”

The borough is one the fastest growing areas in the country, and this growth is only set to accelerate after the passing of the 12,400-home Local Plan earlier in 2019.

Rugbeians frequently express concern over the impact that growth has on the NHS services in the area.