A HOSPITAL consultant in the frontline of the fight against coronavirus has called for a “grown-up discussion” around changes be believes would have a major impact on health and the environment.
Dr Richard Hixson, a consultant in critical care at Darlington Memorial Hospital, has unveiled a vision based around the electrification of the town’s bus fleet, with routes and a timetable designed around the shift patterns of NHS workers.
The vision includes health staff receiving discounted travel as a way of boosting morale and retention levels, with the potential to involve a private sector partner, such as Amazon.
Dr Hixson, who has stressed he is speaking out in a personal capacity, has praised the County Durham and Darlington NHS Trust, for its response to the pandemic.
But, as a keen environmentalist, he believes an electrified public transport system would have huge benefits to both health and the environment.
“These are difficult times, but good things can result from this pandemic. We can’t miss the opportunity for a grown-up discussion around ambitious changes that can have a lasting impact.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel