In a letter to John Burns, Chief Executive, the Scottish Government confirmed acceptance of the Capital Investment Group's recommendation to approve the Full Business Case and invited NHS Dumfries and Galloway to proceed to the implementation of the project
Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: "I am pleased to say that over the next year £2.4 million will be invested as part of a total funding package of £5.4 million to support this project. The centre is set to be a real benefit to the area and patients will be able to access more vital services locally.
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"Despite the significant cuts to Scotland's capital budget, the Scottish Government is continuing to prioritise spending on improving facilities in our NHS. Not only will this improve buildings and equipment, it will support vital sectors of the economy such as the construction industry."
Whilst initial preparatory works on the new £6 million plus facility will commence with immediate effect, work on the project will begin in earnest by October this year with anticipated completion around late Autumn 2012.
The new facility will provide accommodation for Charlotte Street GP Surgery, Cairn Valley GP practice Dumfries branch, Cameron House Adult Specialist Drug and Alcohol Service , and the Integrated Substance Service for Children and Young People as well as a number of primary care services – podiatry, community nursing and health visitors.
Dr Ron McGrouther of Charlotte Street welcomed the decision. He said: "This is great news for our patients and staff, having been in 'temporary' accommodation for such a while – its been a long process to get to this point, but we look forward with confidence to the completion date, and to welcoming our patients to modern facilities which meet our commitment in continuing to provide high quality GP services."
(CD/KMcA)
