I WANT to thank the MPs, councillors from neighbouring areas, clinicians and all those members of the public who took the time to come along, speak and observe this month’s (Feb 17) inquiry into the NHS Sustainable Transformation Plan (STP).

Along with my colleagues, I recognise the need for change to the way we access health services, but believe that the current STP presents some huge risks to the health and wellbeing of our community and those served by Darlington Memorial Hospital.

These risks were very well articulated by those who spoke – journey times and costs for patients and carers if the Memorial or North Tees lose their A&E department, the current challenges to ambulance services, the absence of funding to support the development of the out-ofhospital services, and the appalling prospect of losing the facilities for Darlington mothers to have their babies safely, close to home.

It may be that there is evidence to demonstrate that these changes will deliver better health and wellbeing, but until we see it, the council will continue to provide opportunities for those who use and those who rely on health services, to have their say.

Councillor Bill Dixon, Leader of Darlington Borough Council.