A village on the outskirts of Norwich is in talks to get a second NHS GP surgery after fears that the number of new homes being built is overstretching health services.
Discussions are under way between local councillors and health service bosses about the possibility of opening a second practice in Hethersett.
The plans, which have been described as being at a "very early stage", could see the surgery built near Woodside Primary School and Nursery.
It would be the second health centre established in the village, joining the already overstretched Humbleyard Practice in Great Melton Road.
"There is a critical need for another surgery in Hethersett," said Kathryn Cross, South Norfolk district councillor for the area.
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"This has to happen as soon as possible because the community is continuing to grow and people are already struggling to get appointments."
Local leaders on the outskirts of Norwich have recently called for developers to stop building unless they provide adequate infrastructure to cope.
Both the Greater Norwich Plan and proposals given the green light prior to its publication will see more than 1,300 new homes built in Hethersett between 2018 and 2038.
In 2021, controversial plans for 200 extra homes in the village were approved.
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Persimmon Homes and Taylor Wimpey were also given outline permission in 2013 to build 1,196 homes on the north side of the village.
"The district council is in talks with the Integrated Care Board about how this new surgery would work," added Ms Cross.
"It is still at a very early stage and these things can take time.
"But I would support any measures that would see a new practice developed as soon as possible.
"In the meantime, we are keen to discuss how we can continue to support the existing Humbleyard Practice."
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