Derbyshire firm Wildgoose Construction is set to start work on building a medical centre that will serve 8,000 patients.

Nine doctors will be based at Balsall Common Medical Centre, Hallmeadow Road, Balsall Common, Coventry, and the area's second practice, Meriden surgery.

The Balsall Common Medical Centre, will replace the existing practice which is a short distance away in Meeting House Lane and offers only doctor, nurse appointments and a community ENT clinic because of limited space. 

It is hoped that the new medical centre, which will be an integrated Primary Care Centre, and the Meriden surgery, will offer  services such as physiotherapy; chiropody; mental health services; Aquarius counselling and health visitors.

Balsall Common Clinic, operated by Solihull Care Trust, will also be relocated to the new building. The Care Trust space will house a community nursing team and an NHS dentist. The completed building will also be home to a retail pharmacy.

Work on the Balsall Common project is due to start on Monday, May 9th and the building programme is scheduled for 46 weeks.

Tim Walker, managing director of Wildgoose Construction, said: "'We are delighted to be working with the healthcare developer, Ashley House Plc, on this prestigious project at Balsall Common and with the design team who have created a most innovative and visually impressive building which will be enjoyed by the patients and staff for many years to come.

"Although Wildgoose has completed many similar healthcare developments throughout the country, this is the first contract we have secured for Ashley House and we are determined to showcase our skills, commitment and quality of finish through the completion of this project.

"Our management team will be working closely with all of the stakeholders over the next few months to ensure that the development not only meets the requirements of the contract, but also exceeds the expectations of all concerned."

Joanne Hope, practice manager at Balsall Common and Meriden Group Practice, said the new health centre would significantly improve the working conditions of all staff and doctors at Balsall Common.

She said: "We want to bring more patient care closer to home giving the patients the same opportunities and access to care as other patients throughout Solihull and surrounding areas. 

"The provision of Primary Health Care is undergoing significant change, the new health centre will allow the practice and patients to take full advantage of these changes in the delivery and receipt of healthcare. 

"Everyone at the practice is looking forward to working with patients and other agencies to make the most of this wonderful opportunity."