Letter from Daniel Elmer regarding a new doctors' surgery in Hethersett

Dear Professor Pope,

I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed new doctors’ surgery in Hethersett and urge the Integrated Care Board (ICB) to grant the preliminary approval needed for this vital project to proceed.

The need for additional primary care in Hethersett is urgent and clear. The village has experienced significant population growth, placing increasing pressure on existing healthcare services and making it harder for residents to access the care they need. Without further investment, the existing surgery will struggle to meet the needs of both current residents and the growing population expected in the years ahead.

South Norfolk Council has worked hard to ensure essential infrastructure keeps pace with housing growth, recognising that expanded healthcare provision is critical to the long-term sustainability and wellbeing of our communities. We have done the work necessary to bring this scheme to the point where it is ready to move forward.

We understand the need for appropriate scrutiny and value for money. However, the ICB’s pipeline review has resulted in an unwelcome delay. South Norfolk Council is ready to proceed, but construction cannot begin without the necessary ICB approval.

That approval is now urgently needed.

The new surgery would provide modern, fit-for-purpose healthcare facilities for one of South Norfolk’s fastest-growing communities. Its benefits would extend beyond Hethersett, increasing capacity across the Humbleyard area and supporting patients in neighbouring communities including Cringleford and Mulbarton.

South Norfolk Council has committed to build the surgery, has engaged a development partner, and stands ready to progress at the earliest opportunity.

Every day the decision is delayed means this growing community is condemned to rely on a healthcare provision already under serious pressure. We have an opportunity to deliver a practical solution to improve access to primary care, and we should seize it now.

I therefore urge the ICB to recognise the pressing need for additional capacity and the considerable work already undertaken by South Norfolk Council and its partners.

I also ask the Secretary of State to support efforts to remove barriers to delivery and ensure decisions reflect the urgent needs of growing communities.

The Council is ready. The community needs this surgery. What is now required is ICB approval so construction can begin.

It’s time to stop the delays and start delivering. It’s time to build this surgery.

Yours sincerely,

Councillor Daniel Elmer Leader, South Norfolk Council.

cc: The Rt Hon Yvette Cooper, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Ed Garratt, Chief Executive, Norfolk & Suffolk ICB