Local MP reassured over temporary Eastham Walk-In Centre closure

Justin Madders MP has received reassurance from Health Secretary Wes Streeting that the temporary closure of Eastham Walk-In Centre due to winter flu pressures should remain a short-term measure.

The Ellesmere Port and Bromborough MP raised the issue in Parliament after being told at short notice the centre would close for four weeks from Monday, December 15th until Sunday, January 11th, with staff redeployed to other urgent care sites during an exceptionally busy winter period.

Mr Madders, who previously campaigned with Birkenhead MP Alison McGovern to keep the centre permanently open, said the Health Secretary’s reassurance was vital for residents who rely on the service.

He said: “Our NHS staff are under enormous pressure, and I recognise the impact of winter flu across the system. But even a temporary closure of such a well-used service will be felt locally. Vulnerable patients must now travel further for care and attend larger, busier sites — posing extra health risks at a time when flu rates are unusually high. That’s why it is essential this closure remains strictly temporary and Eastham Walk-In Centre reopens as soon as possible.”

Mr Madders, who was only informed about the closure late on Friday, December 12, prior to its implementation the following Monday, added: “This was done with no prior notice or warning and with little explanation as to why this facility, as opposed to others, was targeted. I urge local NHS leaders to engage more openly in future. It is important they know that we will not tolerate Eastham Walk-In Centre being used as a tap to turn on and off whenever there are pressures in the system and that this temporary closure must be the last.”

Speaking in the Commons, Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: “My Honourable Friend can rest assured that he has my support as he keeps his eye on the temporary nature of this closure. I share his desire for it to be temporary.”

Eastham Clinic itself will remain open for services including community nursing, continence care and speech and language therapy.

Alternative walk-in provision for residents remains available at:

• Victoria Central Walk-In Centre, Wallasey

• Urgent Treatment Centre, Arrowe Park Hospital, Upton

• Minor Injury & Illness Service, Miriam Medical Centre, Birkenhead

Pictured - Eastham Clinic where the Walk-in Centre is situated.