Work is now underway to construct a new health centre for Doune following the signing of the official contract. A ceremonial sod-cutting took place on 23^rd October  2018 to mark the occasion and the £2.7 million development is expected to be operational in 2019.

The new health centre replaces a smaller building which has become overcrowded due to the growing population of the village. It will see a wide range of services delivered locally. These include physiotherapy, podiatry, counselling and could include services to support people with long term conditions such as diabetes, dementia and COPD (a common respiratory disease).

In addition, there will be more opportunities to help patients improve their own health by providing extra support and advice on diet, exercise, managing medicines and giving up smoking.  Also included are improved facilities for the existing GP Practice as well as accommodation for a range of visiting outpatient and services such as antenatal and child health clinics. Around £200,000 is being invested in new equipment, furniture and fittings.

Alex Linkston, Chairman, NHS Forth Valley, said: “This new healthcare facility will provide improved accommodation and facilities for patients and staff and make it easier for people to access a wide range of care and support in their local community.”

Gary Bushnell, Chief Executive, hub East Central Scotland added: “We have worked closely with NHS Forth Valley throughout the development of this project and  it’s great to reach this important milestone which sees work now starting on site. We look forward to delivering a high quality medical centre that is designed and built to meet the needs of the community it will serve.”

Scott Hadden, Chairman, Hadden Group commented: “We’re pleased to have been appointed by hub East Central Scotland and NHS Forth Valley as the design and build contractor and are looking forward to our construction team getting underway to deliver a modern healthcare facility for Doune.”