Bid for new health centre in Kincardine to be put to Scottish health secretary

The bid for a new health centre in Kincardine is going to be put to Scotland's health secretary next week.

Dunfermline and west Fife MSP Shirley-Anne Somerville and west Fife councillor Samantha Steele will be meeting Michael Matheson and raising concerns from the local community.

Shirely-Anne says a new centre is "badly needed".

She added: "Everyone knows that a new health centre in Kincardine is badly needed.

"Unfortunately, the UK Government's decision to provide a lower capital grant has had a huge impact on this project.

"Construction costs have also risen significantly due to high inflation - further reckless action by Westminster that's cost our communities.

"However, I remain determined to play my part and do whatever I can to ensure people in Kincardine can benefit from this purpose-built facility as soon as possible.

"The health centre will bring together a range of services – from GP practices and social care to community and voluntary sectors – improving the experience of patients and service users across West Fife.

"While others shout from the sidelines, we're taking direct action and will be speaking up for Kincardine in the Scottish Parliament."

Samantha said: "I'm pleased that the Scottish Government have confirmed they are still fully committed to the project.

"Having worked in Kincardine Health Centre with the community midwifery team, I can 100% agree that the building is no longer fit for purpose  - and hasn't been for a long time.

"My previous attempts to connect with the Health Secretary had been unsuccessful, so I am grateful to Shirley-Anne for securing this meeting.

"It is vital that Mr Matheson visits Kincardine to see first hand what staff and patients are having to endure here, and I will be pushing for the funding to be released to get the plans for the new centre back on track."

Well residents in Lochgelly are also calling for a new health centre, saying their building is unsuitable.