WORK on a £2.8 million extension to Cockenzie’s Harbours Medical Practice is expected to get underway early next year.

NHS Lothian and East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership (ELHSCP) have confirmed they expect to start work on the scheme early 2019.

They said medical, clinical and administrative staff at the practice are working with ELHSCP staff and the Harbours Patient Participation Group on how to make the new building, and current facilities, work best for patients and staff.

They will be looking at the changes coming in through the new GP contract and the needs of a wider range of health professionals using the building in the future.

They will also be taking into account the impact of the rising population in the area and the fact that, within that population, there is a growing number of older people with more complex needs.

Key to this is looking at how the practice can build on its existing good links with the community to produce a building that does not just meet needs, but is welcoming, comforting and something that Port Seton and Cockenzie can take pride in.

David Small, chief officer, ELHSCP, said: “We are continuing to work with Harbours Medical Practice to finalise the accommodation requirements for the redevelopment of their current premises. We anticipate this being finalised in the near future.

“The extension of the existing premise is set to address current and future pressures on the GP practice and community services. This extension is part of our ongoing commitment to providing safe and effective healthcare for everyone in East Lothian.”