A row over the touted closure of Norwich's walk-in centre has taken another twist - with a patient watchdog saying bosses have failed to address concerns.

Since the launch of a consultation into the centre's future last month, Healthwatch Norfolk claims to have been inundated with fears.

The organisation says it has seen a "huge volume of concern from patients" over the potential closure - adding that GPs, doctors, hospital staff and paramedics have all also voiced their fears.

NHS bosses say that no decision has been made and insist they will be steered by what the public say.

Eastern Daily Press: Alex Stewart, chief executive of Healthwatch Norfolk. Picture: HWNAlex Stewart, chief executive of Healthwatch Norfolk. Picture: HWN (Image: Archant)

But Alex Stewart, chief executive of Healthwatch Norfolk, has doubled down on accusations that leaders are trying to engineer the closure by using leading questions in the survey.

It comes after the organisation received a response to its letter questioning the consultation documents.

Mr Stewart said: "The letter we have had back also suggests this consultation is an opportunity for public and wide stakeholder input to shape what services look like. 

"Healthwatch would fully endorse this approach and welcome the laudable sentiment.

"However, the response fails to address our concerns that the survey is extremely biased in its approach and leads one down into a rabbit hole.

"In fact, the option of closing the centre does not make it clear what would be offered and instead leaves you with the feeling it would be turkeys voting for Christmas."

Eastern Daily Press:

In response to Mr Stewart's initial letter, NHS Norfolk and Waveney chief executive Tracey Bleakley wrote: "The ICB has undertaken significant pre-consultation engagement and has now commenced a comprehensive nine-week consultation.

"The consultation is an opportunity for the public and wider stakeholder input to shape what services look like.

"All the feedback received will be carefully reviewed at the outcome of this consultation."