A doctor has raised concerns about the extra pressure expanding towns and villages are putting on medical services.

Dr Tim Morton of Beccles Medical Centre said he did not have an issue with developments and recognises the "need for more homes".

But the GP said not enough was being done to support "important community assets".

Dr Morton said: "It is a problem which is concerning, and I understand the need for more homes, but with all new developments, it puts stress on existing infrastructure.

"Existing infrastructures, which may already be feeling it, need propping up to support the additional volume of people in the area.

"I don't think enough is being done to help services and infrastructures, especially health services.

"I think more funding could be directed from developers to support important community assets."

Beccles & Bungay Journal: A photo of Gillingham, near Beccles, from the sky - there are development plans to expand the village lodgedA photo of Gillingham, near Beccles, from the sky - there are development plans to expand the village lodged (Image: Mike Page)

Dr Morton said a planned housing development in Gillingham would put extra pressure on the surgery.

He said the practice had "no particular objection" to the new homes, but asked the applicant to support their bid for 20 additional parking spaces at the medical practice.

Dr Morton said: "I used my comment on the Gillingham planning application to highlight our need for help and funding to councils and other authorities.

"CIL (Community Infrastructure Levy) money is not easily accessible, there is fierce competition and health services are not prioritised so it is tough.

"I have raised this with the Beccles town council and local MP Peter Aldous, and I am glad that both have been very supportive."

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The doctor said that this was a "national and regional issue" which needs addressing.

Dr Morton said: "People say that building another surgery is a solution, but bricks and mortar aren't the problems for the NHS, the biggest issue is the workforce, or lack of it.

"This is a national and regional issue which is only going to worsen as more and more homes get built."

Beccles & Bungay Journal: External shot of Beccles Medical Centre, Picture: Nick ButcherExternal shot of Beccles Medical Centre, Picture: Nick Butcher (Image: Nick Butcher)