Could the NHS revive Dudley town centre? MP asks residents for their views

Dudley MP Sonia Kumar is asking residents to have their say on her proposals to put healthcare at the centre of plans to regenerate the town.

Miss Kumar, who worked as an NHS physiotherapist before entering parliament, has been leading calls for Dudley to become home to one of the Government's new neighbourhood health centres, bringing more NHS services into the heart of the town centre and making healthcare easier to access.

She is now holding a survey to find the views of residents, asking them what impact such a development would have on the town, and what types of services they would like to see on the high street.

Miss Kumar said that many people found it difficult to access the healthcare they needed.

Having a large centre in the middle of town could enable people to visit their GP, see a physiotherapist, access mental health support, or receive help for a long-term condition in one accessible location, while also supporting the high street.

“Whether it's travelling to appointments, long waiting times or struggling to navigate different services, the system simply doesn't work as well as it should,” she said.

"I believe we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to change that by bringing more NHS services into the heart of Dudley town centre.

"This isn't just about healthcare. It's about breathing new life into Dudley town centre, increasing footfall for local businesses and making our high street a destination people visit every day."

Miss Kumar recently secured a commitment from health minister James Murray to discuss Dudley's bid for one of the Government’s 250 new neighbourhood health centres, with 120 expected to open by 2030.

She has also met local NHS leaders, businesses and community organisations to build support for the proposal.

Miss Kumar said the next stage would be to ensure local residents help shape the vision.

"This campaign belongs to Dudley,” she said.

"As a former NHS physiotherapist, I understand how important it is that healthcare is designed around patients, not buildings.

"That's why I'm asking residents to tell me what services they need most and what difference they think Health on the High Street could make.

"Every response will strengthen our case as I continue pressing Ministers and NHS leaders to bring this investment to Dudley.

"If we're successful, it won't just improve access to healthcare—it could transform our town centre too.

"This is about creating a healthier Dudley and a stronger Dudley, and I want local people at the heart of that journey."

The survey is now open online survey.labour.org.uk/mwhqcbgnym2uxcsr1sgkveudo , with paper copies also being made available at Miss Kumar’s constituency office and at community events across Dudley over the coming weeks.