A new multi-million pound health and wellbeing hub in Hornchurch has opened its doors to patients.
The St George's Health and Wellbeing Hub welcomed husband and wife Edward and Pauline Weymouth as its first patients on November 4.
The couple, who live in Upminster, attended early appointments at the St George's Country Park Surgery, formerly known as Upminster Bridge Surgery.
The surgery is the first service to operate at the new £38m hub in Suttons Lane.
Pauline said: "It's amazing – the moment we walked into the new practice building, it felt so light and airy.
"The atmosphere is so much more relaxing than the old surgery."
She added that the new setup was more convenient for people like them who live nearby.
Edward shared his wife's sentiments.
He said: "I thought the new surgery was absolutely stunning – even better than I expected."
The opening of the new purpose-built surgery was a significant event for its GPs and staff who had been at their previous site in Upminster Road for 25 years.
Dr John O'Moore, GP partner at St George's Country Park Surgery, said: "It's fantastic to welcome our first patients at our new practice building after so much planning and preparation.
"It's been a huge team effort."
Dr O'Moore added that having a range of health and care services at one site would be of great benefit to patients.
Politicians and health leaders were given a tour of the new surgery to mark its official opening.
Councillor Ray Morgon, leader of Havering Council, said: "This new hub will be an asset to the community where, for the first time in Havering, residents will be able to access a range of health and social care services all under one roof."
Julia Lopez, MP for Hornchurch and Upminster, added: "It’s amazing finally to be here as the new St George’s NHS hub opens.
"This hub will change how we look after people in the constituency and provide residents with the very best the NHS has to offer."
The hub, which secured detailed planning approval from Havering Council in 2022, is backed by £17million of government funding and £21million from north east London partners.
Once fully operational, the hub will provide access to a wide range of health and wellbeing services.
As well as a GP practice, this will include outpatient, mental health, children’s and community services.
A new ageing well centre will support frail residents through a comprehensive assessment service.
Patients will also be able to get scans and other diagnostic tests in a purpose-built community diagnostic centre.
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