Winchester's new GP surgery has moved a step closer to completion after reaching the highest point of construction.

The ultra-energy-efficient new St Clements centre has ‘topped out’ and a small ceremony was held at the site on Wednesday, March 13 to celebrate.

The new building on the corner of Friarsgate and Upper Brook Street replaces the 1960s building on Tanner Street.

Dr Matthew Hammerton, St Clements GP Partner, said: “Topping out represents a significant milestone in the journey of your new GP building. This structure represents more than just bricks and mortar; it embodies St Clements commitment to providing compassionate care to all members of our community in the heart of Winchester. It is a new chapter in St Clements mission to serve and support the health and well-being of our patients, now and for generations to come."

READ MORE HERE: Opening date for new doctors' surgery

The new surgery will provide state-of-the-art accommodation for staff and patients, with 16 consulting rooms, three treatment rooms, admin facilities, reception and larger waiting areas.

It also includes an interactive health hub, space for Primary Care Network services, a chiropractor plus other ancillary health services. Expansion space has also been built in for additional services to be delivered from the surgery in the future.

The development will meet the latest sustainability and energy efficiency standards. It will be able to generate onsite energy through the installation of solar panels on the roof and the design follows Net Zero Carbon principles throughout.

It is being built by Assura, a national specialist property company.

Cllr Martin Tod, leader of Winchester City Council said: “We want to see the best possible health facilities in Winchester and so I'm delighted to see the project moving forward at such a pace.”

Sara Tiller, Hampshire Place Director, NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said: “I am delighted to see this project moving forward and for the staff at the St Clements surgery to have a state-of-the-art facility to provide patients with the care and support they need. We are looking forward to welcoming patients into the new surgery later this year.”

Martin Dawson, Assura Senior Project Manager, said: “We are delighted to reach this development milestone for this fantastic new medical building. It takes a great deal of teamwork from everyone involved to deliver a project like this and the new surgery will be a major asset to the future of primary care in Winchester.”

The new building is set to open its doors to patients in Autumn 2024.