ELDERLY residents concerned about a lack of medical facilities in Gerrards Cross have welcomed a decision to employ a research firm to assess the needs of the community.

ELDERLY residents concerned about a lack of medical facilities in Gerrards Cross have welcomed a decision to employ a research firm to assess the needs of the community.

A meeting held at the Calcot Medical Centre in Chalfont St Peter on Wednesday, September 6, was attended by representatives from the Chiltern Primary Care Group (PCG), Age Concern and the Community Health Council. Also present were representatives from the three medical practices in Chalfont St Peter.

Steve Young from the Chiltern PCG said: 'There was a very good debate at the meeting and ultimately everyone agreed that we did not have enough conclusive evidence to see the best way forward.

'The situation needs the input of the Gerrards Cross population so we have decided to appoint a specialist medical research unit to help gather information.' The practices in Chalfont St Peter had previously conducted a one-day survey of their users as a way of assessing the need for improved facilities in Gerrards Cross.

Jenny Arkell of Age Concern said: 'This mini-survey was an insufficient way of assessing the needs of the community. The outcome of this latest meeting is very positive.'

Joy Kverndale of the Community Health Council has welcomed the decision, saying: 'I am very anxious that we should be a part of the work. We need to be consulted.'