A VILLAGE surgery looks set to expand with the council agreeing to purchase the leasehold.

Braintree Council has agreed take over the leasehold on Silver End Doctor’s Surgery, in Broadway.

According to figures from NHS England the surgery currently has 3,551 patients. Its capacity within the current premises is around 4,000.

Based on the planned development of 1,074 homes within the surgery’s catchment area, the NHS estimates future capacity will need to expand to 6,000 in the next few years.

Rear and first floor extensions are being looked with NHS England vowing to implement changes when the patient list significantly increases.

Income generated from the Silver End Doctors’ Surgery will be re-invested by Braintree Council in services.

Ward councillor James Abbott (Green, Silver End and Cressing) spoke at a meeting last Monday in support of the proposals.

He said: “I have to say I’m slightly less enthusiastic about the investment than I am about the health provision but obviously if the council sees it as a good investment then that is something to be welcomed.

“There is a crying need for investment in Silver End Surgery. There is a lot of pressure now on the surgery and that pressure will increase with the growth that is coming in the area.”

Money will come from balances and borrowings although how much Braintree Council will pay for the premises.

Kevin Bowers (Conservative, Silver End and Cressing) called plans “brilliant” and said they showed the council proactively improving lives of constituents.

Braintree Council has similarly invested in the development of the new Church Lane Surgery in Bocking.

John Mckee, councillor responsible for corporate services and asset management, said: “I’m pleased we’ve invested in this important facility for residents which will provide many benefits while creating a healthy return on investment for the community.”