EVESHAM'S new mayor has reassured residents she will be closely monitoring developments surrounding the town's new health centre.

Building work on the controversial development at Merstow Green is yet to begin, despite gaining planning approval last December. South Worcestershire Primary Care Trust is now investigating an alternative site on Abbey Road. The land used to house an abattoir and was originally earmarked as a temporary site for health services during construction.

Doctors from Merstow Green Health Centre and Abbey Medical Practice, which would occupy the new centre, strongly oppose the alternative permanent site. They have criticised the PCT for keeping them in the dark about developments, but, in last week's Journal, chief executive Mike Ridley denied there was a hidden agenda.

Town councillor Stephen Selby, speaking at the annual town meeting on Monday, said: "All of a sudden the development is on hold because Wychavon District Council and the PCT want to move somewhere else. What are they doing to keep health provisions in the centre of town and not in some slaughter yard?"

Mayor Cllr Frances Smith, who is also chairman of the Friends of Evesham Community Hospital, said: "I attend the management meetings at the hospital, which Mike Ridley actually comes to. He has rather a rough ride on most occasions. I can't say too much other than what has been said in the press, which is the truth.

"Wychavon District Council actually suggested the alternative site, which could be used for the health centre and a new hospital. At this moment in time they are still discussing the possibility. I'm not hiding anything and I'm keeping a close watch on developments."