Construction has officially started on the former Inkerman pub in Ipswich, marking a major milestone in plans to expand local access to GP services for local residents.
The development, led by Cardinal Medical Practice with support from NHS Norfolk and Suffolk Integrated Care Board (ICB), will bring a long vacant building back into productive community use – increasing the capacity of the GP practice.
The start of work represents the key next step in providing new clinical facilities following the completion of the site purchase earlier this year.
Once open, the new surgery will provide seven modern clinical rooms, new office space, and a large group room in the converted barn, which will also be available for wider community use.
The new facility is in addition to the adjacent Norwich Road practice and patients registered at the surgery will receive care from both sites, improving their access to services.
Andrew Preston, General Manager at Cardinal Medical Practice, said: “Today marks an important moment for our practice and our patients.
“The additional space will allow us to deliver high quality care in a modern, welcoming environment, while the building’s heritage adds character to the project.
“We are pleased to see construction underway and look forward to the benefits this development will bring.”
Ed Garratt OBE, Chief Executive of NHS Norfolk and Suffolk ICB, said: “It’s great to see work finally starting at this site and that spades are in the ground.
“The conversion of the former Inkerman pub provides major health benefits to the local community.
“I am looking forward to seeing patients being treated in this refurbished building when the work’s completed.”
The Inkerman, built in 1861 and locally listed for its architectural and historic significance – including its early links to Ipswich Town Football Club – will be carefully restored to retain its heritage while being repurposed into a modern, high quality healthcare environment.
Construction is being carried out by RG Carter, a local builder using local subcontractors and suppliers, strengthening community connections and supporting the local economy.
John Ford, Director and General Manager RG Carter Southern, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the NHS to deliver this much-needed healthcare project in Ipswich.
“Marking the start of work on site, this milestone reflects our long-standing relationship with the NHS and our shared commitment to enhancing healthcare facilities.
“We look forward to the positive impact this development will have for both staff and the local community.”
Today’s milestone has been made possible thanks to close working with Ipswich Borough Council, the project consultant team comprising the Cardinal Medical Practice team, LSI Architects, CPM Consultants, MP Consultants and WSP, Norfolk and Suffolk ICB, local politicians Patrick Spencer and Jack Abbott, the principal contractor RG Carter and its proactive Patient Participation Group.
All have played an important role in driving the scheme forward and enabling construction to begin.
