A Harrow MP has criticised the decision to turn a popular walk-in centre into an appointment-only surgery.

Gareth Thomas, who represents Harrow West, said the changes at Alexandra Avenue Health Centre are indicative of the challenges facing the NHS.

Patients could use the centre as and when they needed it, but Harrow CCG explained that, from November 1, they will need to make a booking before arriving.

Javina Seghal, managing director at Harrow CCG, said it would allow services to be “as adaptive as possible to patient needs”.

Mr Thomas, who previously campaigned against possible changes to the operations at the health centre, said he would fight to reverse this proposal.

He said: “This is a terrible decision. It’s a huge step backwards for access to healthcare when you need it in Harrow.

“Even at this late stage, I will be doing all I can to try and persuade the key decision makers to change their mind.”

Ms Seghal said the initial feedback has been positive and explained that representatives from the NHS in north-west London will talk with patients who use the centre about the changes before the transition.

In a further change at the centre, services will only be available to those registered with a Harrow GP as the CCG looks to provide better access to doctors in the borough.