Petition bid to halt pharmacy closure plan

PLANS to close the only pharmacy in one of the country’s most deprived areas has prompted fears people will be left in an “impossible” situation.

The Boots on the Bournville Estate in Weston-super-Mare serves one of the most deprived communities in the West and in the country as a whole.

But the pharmacy – across the road from the neighbourhood GP – is set to be closed in February.

Ian Parker, one of the two councillors for Weston-super-Mare South on North Somerset Council, said: “Almost half of Bournville residents have no access to a motor vehicle. The two nearest pharmacies are approximately one mile and one and a half miles from Bournville.

“Having to walk these distances to obtain medical supplies would be impossible for some and probably add to their health condition for others.”

An online petition urging the decision to close the surgery to be reconsidered has gathered 178 signatures.

Mr Parker said: “Having a pharmacy with a pharmacist within walking distance from home, for many users, means they can retain a level of social independence without relying on friends or relatives who drive to collect their prescriptions.”

Fellow Weston South councillor James Clayton added: “Councillor Parker and I share our residents’ concerns about the prospect of losing the pharmacy. They already have a lot to deal with including cost-ofliving pressures and struggling to manage their healthcare needs in a timely and effective way.

“We want them to have a chemist nearby. Boots is ideal as it’s directly opposite their local GP practice and they can easily move between the two buildings for their healthcare needs. The loss of an easy to access service could have dire consequences at an individual and community level.”

Together with Jenna Ho Marris, the executive member of North Somerset Council responsible for public health, and council leader Mike Bell, the councillors have signed letters to Boots and the NHS about the planned closure.

Ms Ho Marris described the pharmacy as “essential”.

She said: “Despite everything, this is a resilient community, and the care and knowledge of local pharmacists plays a huge part.”

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