THE future of a new modern health centre in Whitchurch is at risk according to local health bosses.

Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) warns that if the latest plans for a modern health centre at Pauls Moss are overturned by an appeal through a judicial review then the town potentially faces a future with no GP health centre.

If plans are overturned, the nearest practices for residents of Whitchurch will be five to 10 miles away.

The CCG is launching a petition and asking local people to sign it, calling on the objectors to withdraw the application for a judicial review.

Dr Julian Povey, chairman of Shropshire CCG, said Whitchurch was running the risk of not having a the new health centre.

"Getting a modern health centre for Whitchurch is a priority as our two existing practices are working from old residential properties," said Dr Povey. "When the GPs retire it will be very hard to attract new GPs to work there.

"The risk is that if we don't get the go-ahead for this medical centre and we will have lost our chance to ensure that Whitchurch has a future health centre. The funding isn't going to stay on the table forever.

"The irony here is that the planning application has been approved – twice in fact, including an update to take into account feedback – but each time a judicial review has been lodged by objectors.

"I would ask the people of Whitchurch why anyone would say no to a brand new health centre alongside a local landmark building which was becoming derelict and is now set to be given a new lease of life?"

Mike McDonald, former Mayor of Whitchurch, also urged Whitchurch residents to sign the petition.

He said: "What we need to understand is that this is potentially our last opportunity to have a new medical centre fit for the 21st century – that is the sad reality.

"Objections on the basis of minor issues such as the precise amount of open space could put the whole project in jeopardy.

"The views of a small minority could mean everyone else in the town loses this facility we so desperately need – especially at a time of anticipated growth.

"I would therefore urge everyone to support this campaign, before the funding is lost."

The petition can be signed at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/whitchurchpracticepetition