BOSSES at East Lancashire Clinical Commissioning Group said they recognised the strength of feeling over Accrington Victoria Hospital’s GP walk-in centre.

As reported in the Lancashire Telegraph last week, the CCG has delayed its decision over the future of the Health Access Centre until the spring, though closing the unit will still be considered.

Chairman Dr Diane van Ruitenbeek said: “NHS East Lancashire Clinical Commissioning Group is committed to finding the best solution possible for Hyndburn and the whole of East Lancashire. This is a difficult task, particularly when the CCG is faced with making £33m worth of savings over the next three years.

“We have listened to the views of patients, carers, organisations and the public.

“We will not remove a much-needed service before doing our best to put in place alternative provision which addresses patients’ needs.”