Concerns are mounting over the delays in establishing a new super GP surgery in Lydney, Gloucestershire. In 2024, health authorities approved funding to relocate Lydney Health Centre and Severnbank Surgery to the former Co-op site on Newerne Street in the Forest of Dean. However, progress has stalled, sparking frustration among residents and local representatives.
District Councillor Alan Preest (R, Lydney East) has expressed disappointment about the standstill, particularly as the proposed site is currently being advertised for lease by an estate agent. “There’s something up,” Cllr Preest said. “They said they would let us know in January, and it is now March.”
He emphasized the urgency of the project, noting the funding had been allocated almost a year ago. “We expected them to move forward, but it seems they’ve gone back on their word every time and are making excuses. At the end of the day, it’s the people in the communities who are going to suffer.”
READ MORE: James Martin’s ITV Show Guest Alan Davies: Meet His Famous Wife
READ MORE: Galopin Des Champs Withdrawn from Cheltenham Festival After Training Setback
Cllr Preest also highlighted concerns regarding local healthcare infrastructure, recalling the closure of Lydney’s hospital and the pressure on existing surgeries. “The town has grown disproportionately to the infrastructure in the last dozen years, and the doctors’ surgeries are doing a tremendous job, but we deserve better,” he said. “We need proper facilities in the Forest of Dean, especially with significant housing developments underway.”
In response, NHS Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB) officials reiterated their commitment to the project. A spokesperson outlined that the plan, approved in June 2024, depends on the purchase of the site, necessary planning permissions, and a successful construction tender. The surgeries have engaged a third-party development partner, Assura, to fund and transform the former Co-op building into a modern primary care centre.
“The practice and their development partner are responsible for moving the plans forward,” the NHS spokesperson explained. “We are seeking assurance from Assura and the practices that they are on track with their updated plan. Gloucestershire Health and Care Foundation NHS Trust is also expected to co-locate various services in the building, subject to their approval.”
Should the current plans falter, officials confirm they will collaborate on alternative solutions. “NHS Gloucestershire remains fully committed and continues to provide financial support to the practices,” the spokesperson added.
Assura, the developer, acknowledged community concerns and affirmed their dedication to advancing the project. “We are fully committed to working with all stakeholders to move it forward at pace,” said an Assura representative. “We continue collaborating closely with the ICB, GPs, and other partners to overcome challenges related to the technical design, funding, and legal agreements. The site acquisition is proceeding as expected, with a target to start construction in early 2027.”
While progress may appear slow, all parties affirm their aim to deliver improved healthcare facilities for Lydney’s growing population.