Calls are being made for health bosses to rethink proposals to move a doctors' surgery to newly-built premises.

NHS England is proposing to move the St James' medical practice from King's Lynn town centre to Kilhams Way, on the outskirts of town.

A spokesman said the proposed new development would provide improved healthcare services that would serve patients well into the future.

But Alexandra Kemp, independent county councillor for King's Lynn South and West, believes many patients would rather the move did not go-ahead.

She said: 'Making it easier to get to the doctors should be a prime motive for moving a GP surgery – but relocating St James' surgery out of the town centre, where it is within reasonable walking distance of older people in South Lynn and on the bus route, out to Kilhams Way, where it is neither, will worsen patient access for the people most likely to need to access their surgery more often and who no longer drive.

'People in general have great affection for St James' surgery in County Court Road, as many have been its patients all their lives. No one I have spoken to in South Lynn or West Lynn supports the move.'

Margaret Warnes, from Hockham Street, is a patient at the surgery. She agreed with Ms Kemp, and added: 'I don't think it would be a wise decision. It would be a long way to travel if you can't drive.'

Andrea Patman, head of commissioning for NHS England (East), said the project was still at a very early stage and no decisions had been made. She added: 'All new developments are subject to a business case being submitted and approved by partner NHS organisations, to ensure the best outcome for our patients.

'We will also ensure that patients are engaged in discussions regarding these plans, to ensure we can continue to support the development of modern services that meet our patient needs.'

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