A DOCTORS’ group which has unveiled a controversial blueprint to transform care in Hambleton and Richmondshire has pledged to reveal more details of its plans.

After receiving an open letter from leading councillors which stated public confidence in Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby CCG, the body which commissions NHS services in the area, had been “rocked, if not obliterated”, the CCG has moved to reassure residents over its proposals to close the Lambert Hospital in Thirsk and part of the Rutson ward at the Friarage Hospital, Northallerton.

The CCG has said its preferred option would see a range of beds being commissioned by the CCG in places such as extra care housing units, with patients being supported by a team of healthcare professionals working in the community.

Deputy leader of North Yorkshire County Council, Councillor Gareth Dadd and former Mayor of Thirsk, Councillor Janet Watson said until the CCG, which has launched a public consultation over the changes in service provision, had given more details the public would not be in a position to give them due consideration.

Janet Probert, the CCG’s chief officer, said the group was in the process of making any information it held publicly available as soon as possible, on its website and at consultation events and that confidence felt in the organisation by residents was very important.

She said: “Of equal importance is to ensure the entire population of Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby receive the same excellent standard of care and access to health services, and this consultation aims to address this.

“We would like to thank Cllr Dadd and Cllr Watson for writing to us with these really helpful comments.”