Shot in the arm: A computer simulation of the proposed new centre
More than 50,000 patients are to benefit from improved care after plans were finally approved for a new £10million health centre in Shotfield, Wallington.
Local people had been stunned in July when Sutton Council refused an application to redevelop the existing GP clinic which is 34 years old.
But last Wednesday night committee members decided the amended design would enhance the nearby town hall and magistrates' court.
The centre, which will be three times bigger than the crumbling clinic, should open in the winter of 2010. Its main benefit will be to prevent residents having to go to hospital for minor operations.
Dr Heather Lings, a GP at Shotfield Health Centre, said: "The redeveloped centre is needed to meet the health needs of our patients and the Wallington population.
"The building will have state-of-the-art facilities, including a theatre suite allowing more procedures to be done locally. It will vastly improve the environment for staff and patients, and give better access for patients with disabilities."
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The development includes two GP practices, an expanded community dentists, new chiropody clinics, theatres and training rooms.
It forms the first of four local care centres proposed under the Better Healthcare Closer to Home programme. Others are planned for Wilson Hospital, St Helier Hospital and the Nelson Hospital.
Stephen Waring, programme director, said: "At present, residents in Sutton and Merton have to go to hospital for a number of services which could be provided in the community.
"As well as expanding the range of services provided by local GPs, we are developing plans which will enable local people to receive most of their healthcare outside of hospital, closer to home."
Services at Shotfield will be moved to an office block across Jubilee Gardens while construction is under way.
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