PLANS for a new medical centre in Cockenzie and Port Seton are expected to be unveiled early next year.

NHS Lothian has confirmed it is drawing up plans to redevelop Harbours Medical Practice, which it hopes will be given the green light by April.

However, the organisation has revealed it is unlikely the centre will move to a new location; instead they said they were focusing on the potential to rebuild the practice on the current site or extend the existing building.

A spokesman told the Courier: “NHS Lothian are exploring all options for the redevelopment of the practice: this includes the potential to rebuild and/or extend the existing facility.

“It is unlikely that the practice will relocate; however, this will be explored as part of the initial plan options.

“We are working with the practice to finalise these proposals.

“Further details will be included in our initial plans once these are approved by the NHS Lothian board, anticipated in the early part of next year.” Harbours Medical Practice, on Avenue Road, has been battling to cope with the increased demands of patients and lack of resources.

It is estimated up to 10 per cent of East Lothian’s residents are registered at the GP surgery.

Last year, Dr Susan Liddell, from the practice, said it had become the “highest priority” for the health board to address the issue of their inadequate accommodation, with claims the building was no longer fit for purpose.

The view was backed by NHS Lothian, with David Small, joint director of East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership, confirming the practice was one of the top priorities.

This week Mr Small confirmed NHS Lothian was looking at redeveloping the current site and in discussions with the practice about the way forward.

He said: “We expect to submit our initial proposals in the early part of 2015, with approval then anticipated by spring of next year.

“These initial plans will address current and future pressures on the GP practice and community services and will include options to extend or redevelop the facility. The first stage of this approvals process will include costs and funding for the project.

“We are committed to providing safe and effective healthcare for the people of Cockenzie and the wider population of East Lothian.”