There will be no changes to night-time ambulance resources in Buxton, following a decision by East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) to abandon proposals that would have reduced overnight cover.
Concerns were first raised in October after two whistleblowers from the High Peak contacted the Buxton Advertiser, warning of a consultation that could have seen the number of ambulances based at Buxton reduced to just one during the night. At present, the Park Road ambulance station operates with up to four ambulances during the day and two, sometimes three, overnight. Ambulance provision at New Mills was never affected by the proposals.
The whistleblowers warned that any reduction in cover could have led to dangerously long response times, particularly for life-threatening emergencies such as cardiac arrests, with ambulances potentially having to travel from Chesterfield instead of Buxton.
Following the revelations, EMAS was approached for clarification and High Peak MP Jon Pearce was alerted to the potential impact on patient safety. He raised the issue with senior figures and government ministers, warning of the risk to local residents.
EMAS has now confirmed that the plans will not go ahead. Tim Slater, Deputy Director of Operations at East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust, said staff feedback played a key role in the decision.
“We are committed to improving patient care, staff wellbeing and enhancing services with the resources we have,” he said. “During the recent consultation we encouraged staff to share their views and ideas, and that feedback was invaluable.
“After further review based on the feedback received, there will be no changes to the current ambulance resources in Buxton. We will continue to work closely with staff and trade unions as we move forward.”
Welcoming the announcement, Jon Pearce MP said patient safety must always come first.
“I forcefully raised these concerns with everyone I could, including ministers, because patient safety has to come first,” he said. “I welcome the decision to drop these proposals.
“We’ve won this battle, but I’ll keep fighting to make sure the High Peak gets the health services it needs. I also want to pay tribute to the ambulance crews and staff who work day and night across the High Peak. Their dedication, professionalism and commitment to our communities is extraordinary.”
The decision means Buxton will retain its existing overnight ambulance cover, easing fears about response times and emergency care across the High Peak.
