A north-east drug support service – badly damaged by severe flooding two years ago – is due to shut its doors.
The Kessock Clinic, in Fraserburgh, has been earmarked for closure because of the decrepit condition of the building.
The NHS clinic provides counselling, support and needle exchange services for addicts.
A spokeswoman for NHS Grampian said: “The Kessock clinic is in a poor state of repair. It has been agreed that both NHS and local authority staff will move to new premises. Where this will be and when it will happen has still to be arranged.”
A north-east MSP has called on the health board to minimise the impact of the closure on service users.
Richard Baker said: “Clearly it’s vital NHS Grampian continues to provide support for people with substance abuse issues in Fraserburgh.
“It’s important that there’s reassurances the same services will be available in any new premises.
“It’s also vital these services are made available during the transition phase.”
The chief executive of another drugs support service in the area says they will provide any support they can for the clinic.
Drugs Action (DA) provides a similar service for addicts and also advice and support for families.
Luan Grugeon, chief executive, says she is confident firmer proposals will be announced for replacing the Kessock Clinic.
She said: “We work very closely with NHS across the north-east, this sounds like the plans are at the very early stage.
“I would expect that over the next few months, we will be consulted to ensure that any new location will be of benefit to local people with substance abuse issues.
“Our experience of working with NHS colleagues shows us the health board are very much committed to helping people with recovery.
“We will continue to support them and look to see how we can help with any planned move.”
Drugs Action runs a range of services across the north-east and has a helpline open seven days a week on (01224) 594700 or at www.drugsaction.co.uk.