HONITON DOCTORS' SURGERY FORCED TO CLOSE AFTER SEVERE FLOODING DAMAGE - 💦
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
Honiton Surgery, located on Marlpits Lane, has been temporarily closed due to extensive flooding that damaged the building and its infrastructure. This incident has left staff working under challenging conditions to maintain urgent services for patients.
In a statement released on 30th December, the surgery team confirmed that the building will remain closed until a thorough damage assessment can be conducted and the premises deemed safe for use. “We are currently only able to provide an urgent service,” a spokesperson said, highlighting the limited scope of assistance they can offer under the circumstances.
Patients with existing appointments are being contacted about alternative arrangements, including possible changes in location or rescheduling for a later date.
A Honiton surgery spokesperson urged patience and understanding, adding, “We ask our patients to please be polite and courteous to our staff at this time, as they try to work with the limited services and resources available to them.”
In the interim, the surgery has received vital support from the Royal Devon NHS Foundation Trust and Sid Valley Practice, enabling some key services to continue. Staff are also in discussions with insurers and partner organisations to explore repair options and temporary accommodation.
Despite the challenges, the surgery has been buoyed by the overwhelming kindness of the local East Devon community. NHS representatives expressed their gratitude, saying, “We have been genuinely touched and overwhelmed by the support we’ve received during this difficult time.”
Efforts to restore normal operations are ongoing, with the team working closely with insurers to address the damage. In the meantime, the surgery is committed to providing urgent care while exploring alternative facilities to meet patient needs.