Chesham health centre given go ahead by planners

Following a two year planning battle the green light has been given to convert a former Chesham boot factory into an integrated health centre.

Joanna and Nigel Hill bought the old boot factory in Waterside, Chesham and have converted it to a health centre, complete with eight clinic rooms for doctors, dentists and complementary health practitioners, a gym, studio, lecture room and a teaching kitchen to help people learn how to make and prepare nutritious food.

The building, which stood empty for seven years following the closure of the print works, can now evolve following a decision by Chesham Council's Planning Committee on Thursday, February 16.

Since they bought the building in 2009 Joanna has used the time wisely to forge links with many of the natural healthcare teachers and practitioners in the area and will soon be opening what promises to be the next generation of family health centres.

The Bagnall Centre for Integrated Healthcare is named after Joanna's family, who have a history in the area.

Joanna said "Three of my family members have died of cancer and this Centre is a legacy to them. With so many people facing illness I want to help people learn the skills they need and to access the expert support and guidance they need to get well or simply stay well."

Integrated heath is the bringing together of both orthodox and complementary medical approaches, alongside each patient's personal commitment to a healthy lifestyle, to form one seamless healthcare system.

The Bagnall Centre for Integrated Healthcare will comprise two buildings 71-79 and 99 Waterside.

Initially services will be private but the commitment is to secure NHS contracts for specific programmes to help people living with chronic pain, diabetes and other health conditions.