A purpose-built GP surgery in the heart of a multi-million pounddevelopment is almost ready to open.

The branch surgery of Saltaire Medical Practice is a key part of the £4.5 million Cottingley Cornerstone Centre in Littlelands and will open on Tuesday, August 26, replacing the surgery in Hope Hill.

The new two-storey building has been funded by the Cottingley Cornerstone Centre and developed by Bramley Homes.

Benefits for the surgery’s 2,000 patients include a larger waiting area, a separate reception and an on-site car park. Other benefits include better facilities for the storage and disposal of clinical waste.

Catherine Darlington, business manager of Saltaire Medical Practice and the branch surgery at Cottingley, said: “Our opening times and services will remain the same in the short-term. However, we look forward to developing our services in the new premises over the next months for the benefit of our patients.

“We will be delighted to welcome patients to look round our wonderful brand new premises which will provide a much better environment for everyone. During the move we have tried to ensure there has been the minimum disruption to patients.”

John Chuter, chairman of Bradford and Airedale Teaching Primary Care Trust, pictured above, said: “This new surgery is a wonderful example of partnership working resulting in a modern surgery.”

The surgery will be closed on the afternoon of Thursday, August 21, and all day Friday, August 22, to allow staff to move in. Any patient needing an appointment during this time will be redirected to the Saltaire surgery.

Patients and members of the community are invited to an open afternoon on Thursday, September 4, from noon onwards so staff can show them the new facilities. The new number for the surgery will be 0844 477 3674.