A doctors’ surgery which was faced with the prospect of possible closure now has a new management team in place – with a pledge to develop its services.

Suffolk GP Federation is now responsible for the running of Walton Surgery in High Street, Felixstowe.

Dr Billy McKee, who has been at the practice since 1992, has stepped down as partner. However, he will remain in general practice – helping to manage the transition and continuing to treat patients.

Dr Paul Driscoll, Suffolk GP Federation chairman and medical director, said: “We are pleased to be able to take on the running of the practice.

“By keeping the surgery open we have a real chance to develop services and ensure patients continue to receive the best possible care from GPs, nurses and staff.”

Suffolk GP Federation, a Community Interest Company which employs 150 healthcare and support staff, already delivers several primary care services in the county – including Suffolk GP+ which provides extra evening and weekend GP appointments in Ipswich and Bury St Edmunds.

Dr Driscoll said: “We’d like to thank Dr McKee for all his hard work to help us ensure everything was completed in time. We’re also very pleased that he’s agreed to stay on in the short term to help us manage the transition and continue to treat his patients.

“Walton Surgery’s Patient Participation Group has also been very supportive of the entire process and we look forward to continuing our close relationship and working together in the future.”

Walton Surgery, which has 4,300 patients, is also exploring the possibility of greater collaboration with Haven Health and Howard House GP practices in Felixstowe.

It is hoped a closer partnership will make best use of resources and future-proof services for patients.

Any patients with questions about the changes can contact info@suffolkfed.org.uk or call 01473 344939.