ACCORDING to recent reports in the Guardian, investment in the Northwich Infirmary would not be cost effective.

This is due to, and I quote ‘the possible undermining for salt extraction and the adjacent location of a freight railway line. The infirmary also suffers from subsidence’.

Rather than accepting the reasons for closure and vague promises of better things to come, local politicians at every level should be seeking proof of the claims.

Salt is no longer extracted in the area and the freight railway has not been used for years – the rails not quite obscured by bushes and trees.

The Brine Compensation Board closed many years ago as the likelihood of subsidence due to extraction was negligible.

If the infirmary is suffering subsidence, the adjacent properties on Winnington Hill, off Winnington Lane and on Castle may also be affected.

Who will compensate property owners if insurers increase their premiums or excess?

Will buildings in Weaver Square be any more secure?

Brine fields, gas storage and known subsidence are not considered a threat to building HS2 with many trains passing through every hour.

My view is the promise of improved services in the public service hub around Weaver Square may solve the problems of Barons Quay but it would be a small hub with no adequate parking.

B Spencer Winnington born and bred