MP raises fears of ‘severe strain’ for Shropshire GP surgeries due to new housing developments

A Shropshire MP has asked a government minister if the number of GP practices in Telford & Wrekin and Shropshire is adequate to meet increased demand on local services caused by new housing developments.

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Mark Pritchard, MP for the Wrekin, asked the question in the Commons on Monday, as he voiced fears for local services in his Wrekin constituency due to a raft of new housing developments.

The MP asked Health and Social Care minister, Karin Smith, if the number of GP practices in Telford & Wrekin and Shropshire is adequate to meet increased demand on local services caused by new housing developments.

She replied that Integrated care boards (ICBs) are responsible for commissioning services within their health systems and should evaluate the needs of the populations for which they are responsible and plan service provision as required.

But after the debate, Mr Pritchard said: “The Government needs to stop forcing disproportionate housing on Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin communities. Instead, it should work on improving local highways and tackling traffic bottlenecks. Local sewage and water pressure also needs to be addressed.

“There is also an impact on local schools, dentists and GP surgeries. There needs to be a joined-up approach to any new local housing. The strain on local roads and local public services is self-evident.

“It is not enough to just shift blame onto local providers of services given it is the Labour government imposing these top-down housing targets.

“I will continue to fight for better local infrastructure and services.”