Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council and the NHS have confirmed funding for a new facility at Ridge House, part of the High View development.

The surgery will replace Wrafton House Surgery’s current branch on Northdown Road.

Dr Jane Halpin, chief executive of Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “The ICB recognises the importance of making sure that our current and future patients have the access to GP services they need and in modern and accessible premises.

“Our Estates and Premises team has worked with the local council to deliver the new surgery in Ridge House which has been made possible by the ICB investing local NHS money into fitting out the new premises.

“This is a really exciting development and shows our shared commitment to delivering the additional capacity needed to serve Hatfield’s growing need for primary care services.”

Hatfield’s growing population has increased demand for healthcare, putting pressure on Wrafton House GP practice.

The new site will offer three clinic rooms—two more than the current branch—enabling up to 12,000 additional appointments.

The ground-floor surgery will be fully accessible and equipped to serve a larger patient base.

Councillor Rose Grewal, executive member for planning, said: “The current surgery in Hatfield is dated and not up to the standards expected for a modern medical facility, so it was essential the money was found for the new surgery which will meet the healthcare needs of local residents for years to come.

“I know that council officers and colleagues at the NHS have been working on this project for a number of years so I would like to thank them for their hard work to secure the additional funding needed.

“Putting our community at the heart of everything that we do is a priority for the council and as such I am delighted that this development has been able to deliver these new facilities.

“I am grateful for the significant financial contribution made by the developer, Lovell Homes, to local NHS facilities via the S106 agreement for this site.” 

Andrew Lewin, MP for Welwyn Hatfield, added: “I am very pleased to say that a new GP surgery will be opening at Ridge House in Hatfield.

“The brand new surgery will have three clinic rooms, rather than the existing one, with much improved facilities. I pushed to get this over the line, but this has been a community effort.

“Thank you to everyone who has been involved, including Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, the leadership of the NHS Integrated Care Board (ICB) and Lovell, the developer.

“A modern and improved NHS had to start with first class GP care and I am delighted that thousands of patients in Hatfield will soon experience the benefit.”