by Sam Lennon

slennon@thekmgroup.co.uk

Ashford’s Future has expressed disappointment at the threat to the planned new King’s Avenue health centre.
Health trust planners have recommended the £13 million scheme, for the old Ashford Hospital site, should be ditched, believing it is not financially workable.
The board of Eastern and Coastal Kent Primary Care Trust will make its final decision later this month .
Judith Armitt, managing director of Ashford’s Future, said “We are disappointed that plans for this new facility have been put on hold.
“It is vitally important that health services meet the needs of our growing population but value for money is important and we will use the delay to reappraise the best approach to new health provision.”
The PCT says it is continuing with other options to improve local health services such as developing GP provision in areas such as Repton Park, Chilmington Green, and Cheeseman’s Green.
Mrs Armitt said: “We are pleased to be reassured by the PCT this does not mean health services in Ashford will be reduced.
“The PCT is keepng the door open for future development by continuing with its planning application.”
The centre, planned for opening in 2012, was joint funded by the Department of Health and the PCT and was supported by the Ashford’s Future company.