Norwich South MP Clive Lewis asks NHS to reopen UEA pharmacy

Clive Lewis, Labour MP for Norwich South, has called on the health service to reinstate the facility at the University of East Anglia Medical Centre, near the Bluebell Road entrance to campus. 

In a letter to NHS bosses, he referenced other closures in Bowthorpe and Colman Road as he wrote: "This is the third pharmacy to close in my constituency recently.

READ MORE: Air collision fears prompt objections to solar farm powering 8,500 homes

"The demographic of the area surrounding the pharmacy is made up of students, families and a larger than average amount of older residents, many of whom have mobility issues have mobility issues or lack access to regular transport. 

"The consequences of this closure have been a disaster for too many local residents and students alike. 

"I urge you to reconsider."

The letter follows a survey carried out by Mr Lewis' office which found more than 90pc of 2,000 locals want a pharmacy to be reinstated at the UEA site. 

READ MORE: Uncertain future for city pharmacy amid reports of imminent closure

A public consultation for a potential new pharmacy provider also closed on November 30.

The pharmacy closed down earlier this year (Image: Google Maps)

Boots confirmed the closure of its UEA branch at the end of July - leaving Dereham Road, Eaton or Longwater as the company's nearest shops.

READ MORE: Tories confirm plan for replacing controversial former Norwich North candidate

The decision, which came as part of the company's bid to consolidate shops in close proximity to each other, has received fierce backlash - with a local petition to save the facility amassing more than 600 signatures.

“There’s clearly an overwhelming consensus amongst long-term residents and students that there still needs to be a pharmacy at the centre of the local community," Mr Lewis told this newspaper.

"My message to NHS England now is listen up and get it done ASAP.”