A new ‘super’ GP surgery catering for 15,000 patients is set to open next year, health chiefs have confirmed.

Plans for the multimillion pound medical centre at the Kent and Canterbury Hospital were given the green light by Canterbury City Council in January - with few objections from the public.

The proposals were submitted by the Canterbury Medical Practice last October, with the new centre set to replace London Road and Cossington House surgeries.

It comes after the Care Quality Commission deemed the two sites “challenged” to deliver primary care services or cope with an increase in patient numbers.

But some residents are still concerned about the location of the new practice.

Retired reverend Peter Jacobs, 84, says it would take two bus journeys from his home in Temple Road, at a cost of £5. He said: “I know I am entitled to free travel but what about those on lower incomes who need to regularly visit their doctor?”

The Oaten Hill and South Canterbury Association also questioned whether there would be sufficient parking for staff and patients, adding in its objection: “It is of course essential that a good bus service is provided.”

The new state-of-the-art two-storey surgery will include a new pharmacy.

Developer Red Key Concepts has also been tasked with re-configuring parking provision at the site.

The Canterbury Medical Practice, which also includes the Bridge and Littlebourne practices, says the new surgery will streamline services, meaning fewer people are admitted to hospital - especially the elderly.

A spokesman for Canterbury Medical Practice said: “Building work on a new GP practice next to the Kent and Canterbury Hospital is expected to start later this year.

“The state-of-the-art facility, due to open in December 2019, will offer a wide range of facilities to 15,000 patients.

“Planning permission was granted earlier this year and we expect to confirm the construction company in charge of the build shortly.”