A NEW GP practice is set to open its doors in Weston in the New Year.

Construction of 168 Parklands Medical Centre on Anson Road on the Locking Parklands development has finished.

North Somerset Council, who developed the building, has handed over the keys to GPs at 168 Medical Group.

The newest two-storey practice is part of Pier Health Group and will provide services for around 12,000 patients.

Winscombe and Banwell Family practice will also use the facility to support their patients in the local community.

Dr John Heather, GP and executive partner at 168 Medical Group, said: “We are absolutely delighted that we now have the keys for our new surgery.

“Over the coming weeks we will be fully equipping the building ready to welcome our first patients. We are hoping to officially open the doors in the New Year."

Dr Joanne Medhurst, chief medical officer at NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB), which facilitated the build, added: “Weston has a growing population so strengthening GP services and ensuring everyone has access to high quality primary care is a high priority for the NHS locally, and a significant part of our Healthy Weston programme of work."

Councillor Mike Bell, leader of North Somerset Council, explained how the council has worked with the ICB to ensure the practice will meet the needs of the community: “Access to good healthcare is an important ingredient in creating strong and sustainable communities, so it’s great to see the new 168 Parklands Medical Centre ready to open soon.

“By working in partnership with Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire ICB, we have been able to develop health facilities that we’re confident suit the needs of Locking Parklands and benefit the wider local area."

Marion Snelling, group lead nurse at 168 Medical Group, added: “Having this new state-of-the-art practice will enable us to provide a wider range of health and care services, such as improved community and mental health services and increased social prescribing opportunities, which will provide a greater level of nurse training and experience."

Chris Bailey, technical director, South for St. Modwen Homes, master developer for Locking Parklands, concluded: “We are pleased to have contributed to this fantastic new health care facility at our Locking Parklands development.

"It is core part of the new district centre in our masterplan and forms a vital element in delivering a sustainable new community on site.”