NHS Somerset Declines Plans for New Health Hub Near M5

NHS Somerset has confirmed that there are currently no plans for a new health facility near the M5 motorway at Blackbrook Business Park in Taunton. The announcement follows a statement from Summerfield Developments, which recently revealed that it is marketing the last undeveloped plot within the business park as a “prime opportunity” for further healthcare services in the area.

The 1.9-acre site is situated near junction 25 of the M5 and is adjacent to several existing health facilities, including the Taunton Diagnostic Centre, operated by Alliance Healthcare since 2022, as well as Lakeside Dental Practice and Confident Orthodontics. Despite the potential for development, NHS Somerset’s integrated care board (ICB) stated that no discussions have occurred with the developer regarding NHS services at this location.

Opportunity for Development

Ben Trickey, commercial director for Summerfield Developments, emphasized the site’s attractive positioning. He stated, “Blackbrook Business Park presents a prime opportunity for a healthcare or medical operator looking to establish a purpose-built facility in one of the south west’s most accessible and well-connected locations.” Trickey highlighted that the proximity to major healthcare organizations enhances the site’s appeal for clinics and specialist providers aiming to serve the wider Taunton region.

While the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) has initiated pilots for “neighbourhood health services” to consolidate more NHS services under one roof, Somerset is not among the 43 areas included in the recent pilot announced in mid-September. Consequently, NHS Somerset reiterated that there are no immediate plans to establish a health hub or any facility at the proposed location.

A spokesperson for NHS Somerset stated, “We are unaware of any discussions being held with Summerfield Developments, or any proposal for a healthcare facility to be developed on this piece of land.” This clarification underscores the ICB’s commitment to transparent communication regarding healthcare developments in the region.

As discussions surrounding healthcare infrastructure continue, the future of this site remains uncertain. The integration of various health services in Somerset aims to enhance community access, but the lack of current plans for additional facilities at Blackbrook Business Park raises questions about future healthcare provisioning in the area.