The Hollies Surgery in Downham Market will not close in 2025 - but new contract must be agreed

A health board has put residents’ worries at ease by insisting there are no plans to close a town GP surgery.

There have been recent concerns that The Hollies Surgery, located in Downham Health Centre on Paradise Road, could be shutting down.

However, a new statement has confirmed there is no such proposal.

However, the contract allowing the surgery to operate does come to an end in March - meaning discussions are ongoing over a potential renewal.

A spokesperson for NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board (ICB) said: "Within the NHS, some contracts are agreed for a set duration, an approach that is followed nationally and locally in Norfolk and Waveney.

“This allows us to collaborate closely with the provider to ensure patients are receive high-quality care while ensuring that the service offers value for money.

“The current GP contract for The Hollies Surgery is due to end on March 31. As part of our usual process, we will be working with the surgery to ensure patient care will continue seamlessly at the practice premises from April, and in the longer term.

“Please rest assured that there are no plans to close The Hollies Surgery at the end of March 2025 and this is not something that is being considered as part of this contract process.”

At the moment, Downham has three doctors’ surgeries - The Hollies Surgery, Bridge Street Surgery, and the Howdale Group Practice.

However, in September, the Lynn News revealed plans for the Willows Pharmacy - also located in the Downham Health Centre - to relocate into the old social club on Paradise Road - which is around three times larger.

Those behind the scheme said that if plans are successful, the healthcare facility will act as “a pharmacy and then some”.

Willows Pharmacy currently offers services such as help with minor ailments, contraception, screenings and tests, and vaccinations.