‘High time we delivered’: Dorset MP presses for long-delayed Chickerell GP surgery
The MP for South Dorset, who is pushing for a GP surgery in Chickerell, will meet the Health Minister to discuss fast-tracking the project
Patients in west Dorset are being forced to travel miles for basic healthcare as plans for a long-promised GP surgery in Chickerell remain stalled.
Lloyd Hatton has urged the Department of Health and Social Care to intervene and help unlock progress on a new, purpose-built surgery for the town.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Lloyd Hatton said many residents in Chickerell are currently unable to access GP services locally, instead having to travel to Lanehouse, Wyke Regis or Weymouth town centre.
“Patients in Chickerell often struggle to access GP services in their area, and instead they must travel long distances,” he told MPs. “Some years ago, it was confirmed that a new GP surgery should be built but significant delays mean we are still waiting.”
Although NHS Dorset has previously committed to delivering a new facility, progress has been slow, leaving residents without easy access to primary care.
Lloyd Hatton pressed ministers to work with local health leaders to finally deliver the project, asking whether they would help “accelerate” the plans.
In response, the Health Minister agreed to meet with the MP to discuss the next steps, raising hopes that momentum could be regained.
Following the exchange, Mr Hatton said he would continue to push for action. “For too long, patients have been asked to travel further and further up the road for an appointment,” he said.
“It is high time we delivered the new GP surgery that Chickerell was promised.”
The outcome of the planned meeting could prove critical in determining whether long-awaited improvements to local healthcare provision are finally realised for residents.