The government should find the money for a new eye hospital - Helen Martin

For me, the government’s refusal to replace Edinburgh’s Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion, is a grim downer.

Originally it was intended by NHS Lothian (and the government) to build its new replacement in Little France for £45 million. When the rug was pulled because the government said it couldn’t fund it,

Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said the new elective treatment centre being built in Livingston could house some ophthalmology services there as well as in St John’s.

I can understand that along with the new cancer centre in the Western General it’s a financial problem, to put it mildly.

But travelling to West Lothian isn’t easy for people throughout Lothians with eye problems. It would take hours even to attend for an appointment, depending on where they live. Many of the patients, including a couple I know, are elderly, but the easiest way to get to St John’s for example, is by car rather than on buses, trains and a taxi.

Is there going to be the same casualty department, operating theatres and day wards? In other words, is the whole range of treatment and the centre for experts being swept aside?

I think many of us would consider a new eye hospital as a necessity and appeal to the government to somehow find the dosh. And by the way, how is Edinburgh managing to afford even more tram routes?