DOZENS of residents have backed plans for a major new surgery in Kington.

Plans for a £3.5 million doctor’s surgery off Old Eardisley Road were unveiled last Friday.

People travelled from Pembridge and Presteigne to view the plans, which could end a seven-year wait for relocation.

The proposals include dozens of consultation rooms and waiting areas, and would combine minor injury, dispensary, outpatient and dentistry services.

While the site requires car access, feedback was positive during the two-day exhibition. Kington Mayor Councillor Allan Lloyd said the display had provoked tremendous interest and urged residents to back the plans.

“I know there are some questions about access but, in my view, this is the best available site,” said Coun Lloyd.

Kington surgery patient and Presteigne resident David Gorton simply wrote “Go for it – super” on his comment sheet, while Almeley resident Elaine Morgan was equally impressed.

“The present surgery is almost at bursting point and I feel sorry for the doctors who have to work in such inadequate facilities,” she said. “I love the design and think it will blend in beautifully – I just hope it happens.”

Dr Richard King, who works at the existing surgery, was pleased with the response and said the current building was struggling with the demand.

“The general experience is that a doctor’s surgery usually has a 30-year life, but our job is getting more complex and we’re being requested to do more work in a surgery,” said Dr King.

“A little while ago we had a patient who fell but we could only lie her down in the waiting room because we didn’t have room. We have 8,800 patients and we need a new building.”

Ray Ricks, of Boyer Planning Consultants, said an application could be submitted within a month.

“There’s a contract subject to planning permission and an agreement with the landowner,” said Mr Ricks.

“We’ll look at the comments and make amendments because we want to pick up discussion with the planning authority.”