Ageing health centres in deprived areas of the district are set to be replaced by modern premises under a redevelopment scheme approved by NHS Bradford and Airedale.

Since 2007, 12 new primary care premises developments have been completed and a further six schemes are continuing – Oak Glen Medical Centre in Gilstead, Holycroft Surgery at Keighley Health Centre, Parklands Medical Centre, Silsden Health Centre, Newton Way Medical Centre and Carlton Medical Centre.

Now the next wave of priority schemes to be developed have been approved by the board of NHS Bradford and Airedale. These are: North Street Medical Practice, Keighley; Haworth Road Health Centre; a new centre for Lidget Green, to incorporate Woodhead Road Surgery; Queensbury Health Centre; Farrow Medical Centre, Otley Road; Moorside, Thornbridge Mews; Royds Healthy Living Centre Buttershaw; University Medical Centre at the halls of residence in Laisterdyke Lane and Barkerend Health Centre.

Approval on two developments at Ashwell Medical Centre and Thornton Health Centre has been delayed.

In a report before a board of directors meeting of NHS Bradford and Airedale, Helen Hirst, director of primary care and patient engagement, argued the case for the developments.

She said: “While in the short term, with the PCT’s current financial situation, it is tempting simply to stop all developments to which we are not yet committed, it can be seen that in some cases this would be counterproductive. This could lead to greater costs both now and in the future and, more damagingly, potential reduction in the quality of patient care, or in the ability to implement improved and more cost effective patient care.”

Catherine Thatcher, deputy director of primary care for NHS Bradford and Airedale, said: “We are committed to improving our general practice premises so that local people receive care in the best possible environments. Premises development is a long-term process and this paper sets out our strategic intentions for the next decade and beyond.

“Eight of the schemes noted today are in deprived areas and will mean over 60,000 patients benefit from better healthcare facilities in those communities. They will also help to ensure that patients receive the most appropriate care in the appropriate settings, and as close to home as possible.

“A business case for each individual scheme will be brought back to the board and be considered in detail.”