A major expansion to a city suburb surgery is going ahead after years in the pipeline.

The village of Drayton, northwest of Norwich, has been undergoing significant development, with hundreds of homes being built in the area by Hopkins Homes.

But the increased population may place added stress on Drayton Medical Practice, prompting a bid to demolish part of the practice and a two-storey extension which would see its capacity greatly expanded. 

Drayton has seen a growing population as hundreds more homes are builtDrayton has seen a growing population as hundreds more homes are built (Image: Denise Bradley)

These plans went before Broadland District Council last summer and it has now been revealed by the surgery that work will soon commence. 

A spokesman said: "We are delighted to inform patients that work will begin in July.

"The extension will add several new consulting rooms, training rooms, extra administration rooms and parking spaces, enabling Drayton Medical Practice to accommodate its increasing patient numbers.

READ MORE: Concerns about strain on services in city outskirts area set for hundreds more homes

"It is estimated to be completed by April 2025 and will include a partial demolition of the existing premises prior to building the extension, followed by renovation work to the existing premises."

As of June 2023, the practice had 18,200 registered patients, making it one of the largest in the area.

And while construction is under way, some patients may be asked to visit the Horsford or St Faith's surgeries due to demolition taking place to some of the consulting rooms.

The expansion of Drayton surgery is expected to be completed by April next yearThe expansion of Drayton surgery is expected to be completed by April next year (Image: Denise Bradley)

The spokesman added: "We would ask patients to understand that this is a short-term measure.

"There will be unavoidable disruption and we will be ensuring that we keep this to a minimum.

"But we are excited that the completion of the works will give Drayton Medical Practice the room and opportunities to expand services in line with our ever-growing practice population."

Finalised plans for the different phases of the build will be released over the coming months.