There are grounds for optimism in Whitehill & Bordon (WAB) with a task force hearing positive updates on bus services, the leisure centre and the town’s new superstore.

But some things need to speed up with progress on the Health Hub and the future of The Chase Hospital among the talking points at the latest meeting of the Bordon Taskforce.

The group, which involves firms and authorities in the town’s regeneration, was launched last year with a view to “unblocking historic stagnation” on key projects in WAB.

Representatives who attended the latest meeting hosted by Greg Stafford MP heard the new Sainsbury’s superstore remains on-track for a summer 2026 opening while funding and planning permission has been secured for the wetside extension to the leisure centre.

Stagecoach, which has confirmed four-year funding for the expansion of the 18 and 13 routes, reported that ridership numbers have equalled and exceeded pre-Covid levels with Sunday usage more than doubling. New bus stops have been installed near The Shed and Chandler Drive with assessments underway for real-time information across town.

But the Health Hub remains a sticking point with Mr Stafford urging involved parties to “work at pace” to secure the full package residents expect: namely GP and primary care provision, dentistry, a community pharmacy and broader facilities.

Mr Stafford said: “I am pleased that EHDC continues to actively pursue a solution because without its involvement, we would be back to square one.

“Residents rightly ask where things stand; I share that frustration and am doing all I can to maintain momentum.

“I will be blunt: this cannot drag on. Nobody wants continued limbo. Progress must be made this year - and if it is not, we must be prepared to look at other solutions.”

Mr Stafford stated The Chase should remain “fully accessible and unchanged” until a confirmed, improved healthcare provision is in place, a view shared by Cllr Andy Tree, EHDC deputy leader and cabinet lead for WAB.

“Our residents deserve the best healthcare services and clear clarity and commitment as to how they will be provided by the NHS ICB,” said Cllr Tree, adding that health is a “number one priority” for residents.

“I want to see as many (additional) health services provided locally as possible, including NHS Dentistry appointments.

“But Chase Community Hospital must remain open and with no further reduction of services until such time – if ever – that a better facility can be provided within WAB.”

Other updates included new agreements for town centre management and advancing plans for a Veterans Support Facility.