THE future of a closure-threatened walk-in centre in Southampton will be under the spotlight at a public meeting on Saturday.

Last week the Daily Echo revealed that plans to close the Bitterne Walk-In Centre are back on the agenda after temporary plans were shelved last year.

The city Clinical Commissioning Group’s (CCG) says the plans have been brought back to life as it needs to prioritise spending elsewhere.

Last year a pilot scheme to close it for six months was put on the backburner after a public outcry and three separate campaigners led by local politicians and campaigners.

But the proposals were always due to be back on the table after the General Election and the CCG has now launched a consultation on closing the facility.

However, the plans have already been opposed by many, with some fearing it will lead to increased pressure on Southampton’s accident and emergency department and deprive residents on the eastern side of Southampton of convenient access to some health services.

Daily Echo:

Newly-elected Conservative Itchen MP Royston Smith saying he wants it to stay open while Labour council leaders say they would also prefer it to remain open unless its out-of-hours services for residents in the eastern side of the city can be replaced adequately.

The Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition (TUSC), which fought against the proposed closure last year, is holding a public meeting for residents to discuss the plans on Saturday.

The meeting will take place from 2-3.30pm at the Bitterne United Reform Church in Bitterne Precinct. Consultation on the proposed closure will run until September 4.

There will be several public meetings organised by the CCG, including one from 6.30-8pm on July 9 at St Coleman’s Catholic Church Hall in Bitterne Road East.

Another meeting will be held from 6.30-8pm on July 28 at Central Hall.

Residents can take part in the consultation online at www.southamptoncityccg.nhs.uk/consultations.