Newquay GP surgery move still on the cards

Newquay's Narrowcliff Surgery has reiterated its commitment to relocating to a purpose-built facility.

It follows the breakdown last year of plans to bring both of Newquay’s GP practices together at a shared site near Trevenson Road. In October, Radio Newquay reported that Narrowcliff Surgery would instead pursue a solo project, while Newquay Health Centre continues to operate from its St Thomas Road premises and seeks funding to improve and maximise use of its existing space.

In a statement issued today (Tuesday 29 April) by the Kernow Local Medical Committee on behalf of Narrowcliff Surgery, the practice confirmed it intends to move to larger premises to meet the clinical needs of Newquay’s growing population.

It said it "aims to relocate to a site off Trevenson Road, at Nansledan, where pre-approved planning permission has been granted.

"The new premises would have extra clinical space, allowing more GPs and other frontline professionals to be employed, so the surgery could take on lots of new patients as the town expands."

Under the proposals, all existing services would be retained and new ones introduced, with the potential for other healthcare providers to be based at the new facility.

"Continuity of care would also be enhanced, as there would be more GPs, so patients would be more likely to see the same family doctor.

Greater car parking provision would be available at the new premises, which is also located on a main bus route.

The surgery is exploring options to fund the new premises, liaising with NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly and third-party developers. If funding is secured, architectural plans will be produced and shared with the public."

Dr Charlie Stephens, a GP Partner at Narrowcliff Surgery, said: “I would like to reaffirm our commitment to move to a larger, new modern premises which is fit for the future to meet the clinical needs of patients - and the continued expansion of Newquay and its population.

“We are involving all the relevant parties to try and achieve this. It is, however, a difficult goal, and a number of obstacles have yet to be overcome.”

Cornwall and Newquay Town Councillor Olly Monk said: “As Newquay grows, providing extra infrastructure is always at the forefront of the resident’s minds. Top of that list is making sure there is sufficient health care provision.

“A new GP surgery is vital to ensure that Newquay is provided for now and into the future. I welcome these plans to move and expand the doctors surgery and will work with all stakeholders to make sure this happens in a timely manner.”

The surgery currently supports around 16,400 patients and is nearing the maximum number it can safely and effectively serve with its current workforce and facilities.

According to the statement, the practice will remain open to new patient registrations until 31 July 2025. It will then review its capacity; if it is unable to continue providing safe and effective care, it will temporarily close its list to new patients, except for eligible groups.

Prospective patients are encouraged to register as soon as possible. Existing patients are unaffected and should continue to attend appointments as usual.

Kernow Local Medical Committee says the statement relates to Narrowcliff Surgery only and Newquay Health Centre will continue to assess its own capacity and take decisions accordingly.