Fears for over-loaded services in south Norfolk have prompted a councillor to campaign for a new doctors' surgery in Hethersett.

David Bills, South Norfolk councillor for Hethersett, claims the existing surgery, on Great Melton Road, is oversubscribed and that 1,200 homes which are earmarked for the village will only put it under more strain.

Mr Bills, who met the director of commissioning for NHS England in the eastern area yesterday, said: 'It's ridiculous and it cannot be allowed to be like this. There are waiting times and delays and this is before we have all the new homes and families move in.

'There is the land, there is the money - it needs to happen.'

According to NHS England, Hethersett Surgery is rated as one of the best in terms of ease and getting appointments, with 96pc of patients claiming they are happy with the overall experience.

But Pat Pierce, who lives in Hethersett, said this wasn't the case.

'You almost have to plan to be ill, to make an appointment three or four weeks ahead because there are no earlier appointments.

'I'm not sure how it will cope with all the extra housing that is springing up.'

Cyril Lindsey, managing partner at the surgery, said: 'We are currently and will continue to work with the local area team to fund a mutually-successful solution.'

The homes have been earmarked for the village by 2026 under the Joint Core Strategy, a development blueprint drawn up by the Greater Norwich Development Partnership, made up of Norwich City Council, South Norfolk Council, Broadland District Council, Norfolk County Council and the Broads Authority.

It also promises employment space, improved facilities and transport links.

• What do you think Hethersett needs? Let us know by emailing reporter Lauren Cope on lauren.cope@archant.co.uk