HOPES of a new �1million medical centre to improve healthcare in Felixstowe were today given a shot in the arm.

Doctors have been trying to find a way for the past decade to replace Central Surgery, which has been condemned as one of the “poorest quality” practice buildings in Suffolk.

Long-awaited proposals have now been submitted which would see a new two-storey surgery plus pharmacy built on a one-and-a-half acre horse paddock next to The Grove woodland.

Among the extra services the centre will be able to provide will be specialist diabetes treatment, more complex minor surgery, clinics provided at hospital, extra appointments and longer opening hours.

It will also provide asthma and phlebotomy services, osteoporosis assessment, midwifery and baby clinics, a mental health worker, occupational health advisor, as well as the usual services for its 16,000 patients in an improved and more comfortable setting.

The project will be paid for from the sale of the old Bartlet Hospital for luxury homes.

GPIC Ltd has made a planning application on behalf of the practice, which has five partners, four salaried doctors, two nurse practitioners and large support staff.

There are still concerns to overcome, with an edge-of-town greenfield site chosen and no public transport, leaving people with a half-mile walk to and fro.

Architects the James Totty Partnership, said: “The existing bus route does not pass immediately by the site, but discussions have taken place with the bus company to possibly re-route a service close to the site.”