PLANS to close vaccine hubs in some Lanarkshire towns have been criticised due to a lack of transport links to new “supercentres”. 

Health bosses have confirmed the likes of Airdrie and Wishaw will lose their jag bases by the end of the month with residents instead invited to Motherwell or East Kilbride for a shot. 

A small number of local centres – including in Coatbridge and Lanark – will be opened from March 25 on a rotational, fortnightly basis. 

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However, concern has been raised about a lack of transport links to the new supercentres. From Shotts, for instance, it can take more than an hour and 10 minutes via multiple buses and a 30-minute walk to get to the North Lanarkshire hub at the Ravenscraig Regional Sports Centre. 

Health chiefs say they are working closely with local charities to provide free transport and insist the plans will allow more workers to return to other NHS services.  

Glasgow Times: Ravenscraig, on the outskirts of Motherwell, became one of two supercentres last month Ravenscraig, on the outskirts of Motherwell, became one of two supercentres last month

Richard Leonard, MSP for Central Scotland, said: “A total of 1,200 people have died in Lanarkshire from Covid-19 and the county still has one of the highest number of cases anywhere in the UK.

“That’s why it is vital that the vaccination programme is as effective and accessible as possible. That means renewed investment in local centres and local delivery.

"Public transport to Ravenscraig for people who live in Airdrie, Shotts and Cumbernauld does not exist.

Glasgow Times: Richard Leonard criticised the decision to close the local hubs Richard Leonard criticised the decision to close the local hubs

“The government needs to step in and give NHS Lanarkshire the additional resources it needs to bolster local capacity and ensure that vaccines are delivered as locally as possible.” 

Dr Mark Russell, lead for the Covid-19 vaccination programme in Lanarkshire, said: “Up until now our programme has been tailored to vaccinate the most at-risk members of our community, in centres close to their homes. 

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“Initially, all appointments will be at the supercentres. 

“People can choose to reschedule their appointment to one of the local centres, however there will be a wait for these. We would strongly encourage people who can attend their appointment at a supercentre.”