It is extremely disappointing to hear that a decision has been taken by the Board of the East of England Ambulance Service Trust (EEAST) to close its Bedford Office.
Situated at Hammond Road, Bedford, the office is outside of the Mid Bedfordshire constituency but the decision impacts constituents who work for EEAST, and their families. If my office can help or provide support at this difficult time, please email me: blake.stephenson.mp@parliament.uk.
I was in touch with the EEAST as soon as I heard rumours about the potential closure of the Hammond Road centre last year and worked to get clarity for local workers.
In October, I was informed by Chief Executive that there had been no decision taken and that all options were being assessed. The Chief Executive also promised to keep me informed of progress.
My office chased EEAST earlier this year for further updates and we were told that we would be kept informed. Again, I was promised ‘comprehensive engagement with stakeholders’.
Disappointingly, I have not received further information about the board decision to close the site. Unelected quangos are running amok, and I personally expect much more openness, transparency, and co-operation between public bodies and those of us elected to represent constituents.
I spoke with the Mayor last night. I echo his statement below and we will continue to work closely on this. The EEAST certainly has questions to answer, about the decision and how it has been handled.
Bedford Mayor Tom Wootton's statement:
"Today I heard the deeply saddening news from a number of residents that the emergency control centre at Hammond Road in Bedford is to be closed. While I am told that a number of people have been offered jobs in Essex and Norwich many people are due to be made redundant through no fault of their own.
"This came as a complete shock and a bitter blow from the NHS Ambulance Service. We were always told that a review was happening and that they would keep us in the loop.
"Our worst fears have been realised.
"To me this whole decision is disgusting and the excuses I am told that he put forward seem incredibly weak. I understand that there was also confusion about the effect that Universal Studios will have on local need for these services. While this is five/six years away we still need the services now.
"I have written to the Chief (who last promised to keep me informed in March with no subsequent updates) to request a meeting on the impact that this decision will have on Bedford Borough at every level.
"I hope that this decision is not final and can be reviewed with an aim to reverse it. My heart goes out to all the employees who now face such uncertain futures."
