Petition launched after review of ambulance stations in West Surrey
Concerns grow over potential closure of existing local ambulance stations
A petition has been launched to oppose the possible closure of local ambulance stations in Guildford, Godalming, Tongham, and Haslemere.
It follows an announcement from South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) to develop a new "Make Ready" centre in Farnborough.
The Lib Dems are leading the initiative, worried about the potential impacts on emergency response times in West Surrey's rural areas.
The petition calls for the protection of local ambulance services, highlighting the importance of maintaining community-based facilities amid SECAmb's strategic realignment.
Zöe Franklin, MP for Guildford, said: "We support investment in cleaner, better-equipped ambulances. But that investment must not come at the cost of local emergency cover for patients in the wider West Surrey community."
SECAmb's new centre in Farnborough aims to improve efficiency with modern equipment and better rest facilities. However, the plans involve reviewing existing facilities to determine strategic placement for response posts.
Josh Taylor, Head of Operations for Guildford, assures that the new system will enhance care efficiency and centralised reporting, ultimately boosting training and response capabilities. Despite these assurances, residents are concerned about increased response times in non-densely urbanised areas.
Josh Taylor said: "Our Make Ready system represents the gold standard of vehicle preparation. Our plans will allow for more efficient cleaning, restocking and preparation of our vehicles, helping improve patient safety and ensuring our teams spend less time off the road and more time responding to patients."
A total of £24.8 million for the project has been secured from NHS England, with completion of the centre anticipated by Spring 2030, contingent on planning permission.