GP surgery put at risk of closure

The group said Whitley Villa Surgery was not compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act due to lack of lift to the first floor

A GP surgery is at risk of closure at the start of next year.

The University Medical Group (UMG) is asking for views on plans to shut the Whitley Villa Surgery on Christchurch Road in Reading.

The group said it could not always staff the site and the building was not compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act as there was no lift to the first floor consulting rooms.

Green councillor for Katesgrove, Kate Nikulina, said "more consideration needs to be given to keeping the surgery open and improving it".

UMG’s website confirmed that it is proposing to close the branch, and the group has provided a link to a survey form.

The group added that it was not able to have a GP at Whitley Villa at all times as they were often required at its main site in Northcourt Avenue, which is located half a mile away.

UMG's main site is in Northcourt Avenue, half a mile away from Whitley Villa Surgery

Reading Green Party encouraged patients to engage in the consultation.

“It provides a vital service to the community," Ms Nikulina said.

The consultation closes at the end of September.