IN November 2017 I supported the call for a new Health Centre for Kelty.

I had written to the First Minister, Fife Council, NHS Fife and the Fife Health and Social Care Partnership.

In this summary note I cannot record all of the replies but hope that the main gist will suffice.

The Fife Partnership advise that such Capital developments are an NHS responsibility, also saying that Kelty, to date, had not been included in the five year plan. The Partnership, NHS Fife and the Kelty Practice will discuss Capital Developments in Kelty further as and when this is raised as an issue, I am told.

Any proposed investment in facilities would be subject to support from the Fife Partnership, appraisal from NHS Fife Board and the Scottish Government Capital Investment Group.

Fife Council and NHS Fife delegate funding responsibility and accountability to the Partnership for services included.

As I understand Fife Council, from Executive to elected councillor level, is strategically represented in the business affairs and policy of the Partnership which covers an area from Kirkcaldy to Kincardine.

Discussions with Kelty Practice will continue, I am advised and if when an agreement for Captial work is identified this will be raised with the Capital Planning Group.

The First Minister informs me that NHS boards must submit a business case, but critically as of November 2017, Kelty Practice is not seen as a priority for Capital Investment.

In November 2017 the senior Fife Partnership spokesperson says and I quote: "We will endeavour, working together with the medical practice in Kelty, to ensure that the service capacity will meet the needs of all residents."

Kelty Practice and others have petitioned NHS Fife over many years. It is felt that the current premises are no longer fit for purpose and the Practice continue to press their case for new premises.

In the circumstances public opinion is also important. The old adage comes to mind: 'If at first you do not succeed try, try, try and try again.'

The hope is 2018 will bring more favourable circumstances for all Kelty residents.

ANDY WILSON,

Lawrence Street,

Kelty.