FUNDING support towards the expansion of Launceston Medical Centre has been announced by NHS England.

Medical centre partners and the community have long awaited news of its funding bid, which was first submitted in July 2013. Last week, business manager of the medical centre Peter Harper confirmed the town will receive a share of the NHS' £1-billion investment programme funding.

The support, given in principle, means partners are a step closer to developing the medical centre at Landlake Road.

The planned additional space will almost double the working area at the surgery by expanding onto land at the rear of the existing premises, currently owned by Launceston Hospital. Additional car parking will be provided and it is hoped this will be accessed via the road currently leading to the hospital.

Mr Harper said partners are 'delighted' to receive support in principle and 'realistically' it will take around two years to build the extension from start to finish.

For the full report, see this week's Post.