A MEDICAL centre has opened in Queensbury 20 months after its predecessor was abruptly shut down.

Thousands of residents had to change doctor's practice when Mollison Way Medical Centre was closed in May 2008 following a dispute between the practice manager and NHS Harrow.

After a long wait, with patients displaced to other medical practices across the borough, a new medical centre opened yesterday at 46 South Parade, Mollison Way.

Called Harness Harrow GP-led Health Centre, it has been set up by a consortium of doctors who successfully bid to take over the health services for the area.

Vijay Patel, business manager for the new practice, said: “We are clearly delighted to be here in the local community, and we are keen to provide a full range of services with people who have worked in the existing community.

“There is a big void, we know the community have needed something in place, and hopefully patients will take up the opportunities we are offering.”

The practice will be open between 8am and 8pm seven days a week throughout the year. It is hoped the seven doctors will be able to cater from around 2,000 residents of the Queensbury and Edgware areas.

The new building is just a few doors down from the old Mollison Way Medical Centre, and marks a dramatic improvement for patients.

There are now four consultation rooms, a spacious waiting area, and full disabled access. It also offers walk-in treatment for patients who are not registered with the practice.

Mr Patel said he hoped patients who had to register at other practices will be tempted back to Mollison Way for their medical treatment.

He said: “Hopefully we will be able to draw back patients and given them their healthcare locally.

“Feedback has been very positive, we have had tremendous comments from patients and we sincerely hopes it will continue.”

Councillor Dinesh Solanki, (Cons, Queensbury), said he was pleased to see the new centre opening in his ward following months of discussions.

He said: “I am pleased with results – it will be open 8am to 8pm, seven days a week, and serve local residents better than ever especially older residents close to home.”