Good News for Colchester Patients: GP Surgeries Getting a Much-Needed Upgrade!

Pam Cox MP
May 7
2 min read

If you've ever found yourself stuck in the dreaded 8am rush to book a GP appointment, you're not alone — and help is finally on the way.

Thanks to a major investment from the Labour government, GP surgeries across Colchester are set to receive vital upgrades that will make it easier for patients to get the care they need, when they need it.

Local Surgeries Set to Benefit

Three Colchester practices - Hawthorn Surgery, Abbeyfield Medical Centre, and Highwoods Surgery - are among over 1,000 across the country receiving funding to modernise their facilities. That means more consultation rooms, better use of space, and ultimately, more appointments available for local people.

Doctor in a clinical setting with a stethoscope, blurred background of shelves. Text reads: "Local GP Surgeries Getting a Much-Needed Upgrade."

More Appointments, Less Waiting

This is part of Labour’s Plan for Change, which will deliver over 8 million extra GP appointments this year alone. Many surgeries already have the staff to see more patients - they just haven’t had the space. That’s now changing.

Backed by the Biggest Investment in Years

With over £102 million being invested nationally, this is the largest upgrade to GP facilities in five years. It’s all part of Labour’s mission to fix the NHS from the ground up - starting with the front door: your local GP.

Pam Cox MP: “We’re Delivering for Colchester” Pam Cox, Labour MP for Colchester, welcomed the news, saying:

“Residents tell me how frustrating it is trying to get a GP appointment. I promised Labour would bring back the family doctor — and with 1,500 new GPs already recruited, this is another big step forward. We’re not just fixing the front door of the NHS - we’re fixing the whole house. These upgrades will mean more appointments, better care, and a real shift towards community-based health services.”

Simple Fixes, Big Impact

From adding new treatment rooms to reconfiguring existing spaces, these changes will help surgeries see more patients, faster. It’s a practical step that will make a real difference - especially for those who’ve struggled to get seen.

A Healthier Future for Colchester

This investment is part of a wider plan to move care out of hospitals and into the community - helping people stay healthier for longer and making it easier to see a doctor before problems escalate.