DISCUSSIONS continue between Launceston Medical Centre and NHS Property Services to ensure the medical centre expansion project moves forward.

The Launceston Community Network Panel at its meeting on December 14 was given a written update on the long-awaited medical centre expansion, based on correspondence with the centre’s business manager Peter Harper and director of assurance and delivery for NHS England South, Amanda Fisk.

On the land for medical centre expansion, the update read: “Following the district valuer’s report to NHS Property Services, an alternative valuation has been produced; in addition there has been some movement on the overage clauses relating to the site.

“Heads of Terms for the sale of the land are currently being worked through and it is hoped that these will be agreed shortly with completion planned for the end of the year.”

On the building, the update continued: “With the sale of the land progressing, more focus can be given to the affordability and value for money due diligence checks which are required in order to sign off the Estates and Technology Transformation Fund project (the NHS mechanism for moving this project forward).”

A meeting was arranged for mid-December to go through these matters.

“Discussion is continuing with NHS Property Services on a regular basis to ensure a clear understanding of future cost implications and rent abatements, as well as ensuring that the project continues