PRINCES Street surgery is to close at the end of the year after it’s leading doctor was refused an alternative location.

Manor Park Medical Centre, which provides services to the Princes Street Branch Surgery, has had to apply to close the surgery. The surgery, that has served residents for 43 years, will shut its doors for good in next month.

Back in July, a number of residents close to Princes Street, many of whom had mobility problems, had complained bitterly about the potential loss of the surgery, as it would leave them with no local medical facility. However, the closure has proceeded regardless.

The head of the practise, Dr Kesar Sadhra, said: “I feel very strongly about my patients, the we’ve been open for 43 years, it’s a popular surgery. Obviously, its not fit for purpose for the future NHS, and with the landlord giving us notice, my hands are very, very tied. I have to accept the decision, however reluctantly.”

Dr Sadhra, had been attempting to organise an alternative facility in Wexham Road, but the Slough CCG refused to grant approval.

Dr Sadhra said: “The Slough CCG, and NHS England, have not approved the plans, even as a temporary measure. I’m very disappointed, but I must abide by and accept the decision. I have tried to challenge it.

“There was a lot of support for it in my meetings with local residents, a lot of voices. I’m very gutted. My ambition was to provide a facility for them.

“The CCG has made a statement that they are looking at making provisions for this part of Slough, the eastern part. I don’t know what that holds, but its very important that they address it.”

Alex Tilley, Associate Director of Primary Care at Slough CCG, said: “We are working with Dr Sadhra and local people to ensure patients are supported during this period to minimise any inconvenience this change may cause. We understand that some patients may be worried about these proposed changes, but we would like to reassure them that they will continue to receive high quality primary care services at the nearby Manor Park Medical Centre, which has recently had additional investment to extend its premises to accommodate a growing population.”