A MULTI-MILLION pound project to move Andover Health Centre to a brand new, purpose built wing on the site of Andover War Memorial Hospital has begun.

The new GP surgery building will allow patients of the centre to have quick access to hospital services such as X-Rays and phlebotomy (taking blood) when required, while giving the building a modern setting for its 14,000 registered patients. An NHS community specialist care dental service will also be on site.

Dr Rosemary Griffiths, senior partner at Andover Health Centre said: “'The Andover Health Centre team is delighted to see work begin on our new Health Centre.

"The building will enable us to continue to provide the best possible care for our patients in purpose-built, modern premises and everyone involved is looking forward to moving in once the work is complete.”

Rachael King, director of commissioning, NHS West Hampshire CCG said, “It’s exciting to see the redevelopment of the GP surgery underway, which will enable the continued provision of high quality healthcare from modern fit for purpose premises.

"This is partnership working in action to do the very best for every patient.”

The project is a result of a partnership between Hampshire Hospitals and West Hampshire CCG.

Mountjoy has been appointed as the contractor for the project, and the construction on the centre is due to be completed later in the year. Hospital services will remain unaffected throughout the course of the build and when the new centre is open.

Alex Whitfield, chief executive of Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, added: “It is great to be working with our partners to be able to provide the best possible care for the people of Andover. We know how important it is for people to be able to access care closer to their homes. This is an exciting step forward in providing modern facilities and joining up health and care services in Andover.”