Concerns over health provisions in Lochgelly have been raised with new MP Richard Baker.

Members of the Friends of Lochgelly Health Centre (FLHC) met the Glenrothes and Mid Fife politician to highlight ongoing worries over the lack of progress for a new health and wellbeing centre for the town.

NHS Fife promised to replace the current David Street facility by 2019, but work never started.

Plans were then further delayed when the Scottish Government announced it was to adopt a phased approach to capital expenditure meaning it could not be delivered within planned timescales.

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The government said money for a new health centre in Lochgelly, and one in Kincardine, was not considered a "priority" in its Infrastructure Investment Plan (2021-26).

The then health minister Michael Matheson blamed sky-high inflation, less cash than expected from Westminster and rising construction costs as he confirmed that Kincardine and Lochgelly will have to wait another three years for funding.

The current dilapidated facility has been deemed as not fit fur purpose and locals say the issues have led to patients being denied the level of care they need and deserve.

FLHC chairperson Garrie Roberts said medical and support staff face poor working conditions on a daily basis.

"During the meeting, the FLHC emphasised that the campaign to secure a new Health and Wellbeing Centre for Lochgelly has been ongoing for well over a decade," he said.

"Throughout this time, several promises have been made and broken by the Scottish Government. In 2021, as Health Secretary, Humza Yousaf provided his "absolute confirmation" that funding would be allocated for this project. Yet, Lochgelly is still waiting for this promise to be fulfilled.

"Among the many points discussed, the FLHC highlighted that Lochgelly is a growing community with new housing developments planned within and on the south side of the town.

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"They expressed concern that the current inadequate health services would be placed under even greater strain by this expansion, exacerbating the frustration and despair among residents regarding their access to healthcare."

Mr Roberts said that they were pleased Mr Baker took the opportunity to draw up action points to the issues raised.

He added: "The Friends of Lochgelly Health Centre welcome any expansion to the town with open arms but with the existing Health Centre which is not fit for purpose at the present time.

"What are things likely to be with any expansions? Two Scottish Health Ministers have declared that the existing Health Centre is not fit for purpose and NHS Fife have agreed but have done nothing except wallpaper over some cracks."