Northamptonshire ICB has welcomed the High Court's decision to lift an automatic suspension in a dispute over a contract to provide services at Urgent Care Centre in Corby.

The suspension followed a claim in January 2024 by incumbent contractor One Primary Care (OPC), part of One Medicare, against the decision to award the contract to DHU Healthcare following an invitation to tender.

OPC had claimed the award of damages was not an adequate remedy due to its loss of reputation and market reputation.

Northamptonshire ICB argued it would suffer ‘unquantifiable loss' if the suspension was maintained.

In her ruling, Mrs Justice Jefford said: ‘I am satisfied, with some hesitation, that to the limited extent of disruption to business there is an arguable case that damages are not an adequate remedy for OPC but I consider that the matters that give rise to that hesitation are powerful factors in the balance of convenience and point strongly to the balance of favour being in favour of lifting the suspension.'

A spokesperson for Northamptonshire ICB said: ‘Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board welcomes the judgement and looks forward to implementing the new arrangements with DHU Healthcare. 

‘Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board will work with both the incumbent and the new provider to deliver a seamless mobilisation process, whilst ensuring patient safety and quality standards are maintained. In the meantime, Corby Urgent Care Centre remains open as normal and there are no changes to the service it provides to the local population of Corby and Northamptonshire.'