A health chief has reassured patients that a dialysis unit will continue at West Middlesex Hospital after fears that it faced closure.

More than 350 people signed a petition after being informed that the current dialysis unit, which was temporarily closed over the pandemic, will be shut permanently and replaced with a new centre.

The Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, which runs the service at the Isleworth-based hospital, is planning to create a new centre at the site, but patients voiced concerns over a lack of information and uncertainty of how their treatment will go ahead in the interim.

Hounslow Council leader Steve Curran this week wrote to the Trust asking why the decision was made to close the unit without proper consultation with patients, community groups and the council.

The Chief Executive at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Professor Tim Orchard responded to Cllr Curran's letter by saying that the situation around Covid-19 had created unprecedented challenges.

But he said every effort was being made to keep the service going until a new, larger proposed facility was built on site.

Responding to the letter Cllr Curran said: "It is important now more than ever that the Council work in partnership with our NHS colleagues.

"It was clear to me that patients, their family and friends, highly valued the local service the centre provides, that is why they were so worried about its future.

"I was very pleased this matter was brought to my attention and I am delighted with the response from Professor Orchard, giving assurance that the dialysis unit, which is currently treating 48 residents will be able to continue at West Middlesex Hospital.

"We will work constructively with the Trust, patients and resident groups to ensure the long-term future for this service in Hounslow. It's more important than ever that services are provided locally that meet the needs of our residents both now and for the future."