'Worry' after village GP surgery announces closure

NHS bosses are asking patients to share their views on the future of GP services in the area

A GP surgery in Staffordshire is due to close within months as the current operators have decided to end their contract.

An NHS spokesperson said they were working to ensure patients of the Betley Surgery, near Newcastle-under-Lyme, had "ongoing access to high-quality local healthcare".

Meanwhile, local MP Adam Jogee said he would be meeting with NHS bosses to discuss the issue.

"Access to a local GP is vital, and Betley residents must be able to continue accessing primary care close to home," he said.

Sarah Jeffery, director of primary care for NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board (ICB), said she was committed to ensuring patients received the care they needed.

"Betley Surgery's current contract holders have chosen to end their contract on 31 March 2026 for personal reasons, and the building will no longer be available after that date," she said.

"We are working closely with partners to make sure patients have ongoing access to high-quality local healthcare and are asking patients to share their views through a short survey to help shape future arrangements."

The online survey will be open until 23:00 GMT on 30 November 2025 and paper copies will also be available in reception at the surgery.

'Worrying news'

"While services will continue as normal until March 2026, this will understandably be worrying news for residents who rely on the surgery for essential healthcare," Mr Jogee said.

"I will be meeting the primary care team at the ICB as soon as possible to press for a clear plan for continued GP provision.

"I will do everything I can to protect local healthcare services and to ensure residents' voices are heard throughout this process."