Liberal Democrat MP Martin Wrigley has called for a new “GP Guarantee” to ensure that housing developments in Teignbridge are matched by investment in local doctor’s surgeries.
In a statement released on 15 April, the MP for Newton Abbot set out proposals that would require new or expanded GP facilities to be delivered alongside new homes, arguing that existing services are under increasing strain.
According to analysis cited by the Liberal Democrats, GP surgeries in Teignbridge have each taken on an average of 939 additional homes since 2015 — a reported increase of nearly 25%. The party also claims that around 1,300 GP surgeries have closed nationwide over the past decade.
Mr Wrigley’s proposal forms part of what he describes as an “infrastructure first” approach to development. Under the plan, developers would be required not only to fund new or expanded GP premises, but also to support staffing — either by securing contracts or covering the cost of salaried GPs — during the early stages of new communities being occupied.
He argues this would help prevent additional pressure on existing surgeries as populations grow.
Speaking about the campaign, Mr Wrigley said Devon is facing significant challenges in accessing healthcare, with services “overstretched” and waiting times a concern for many residents. He added that new housing developments are often approved with expectations of improved local services that do not always materialise.
The proposals also reference research from the London School of Economics suggesting a link between declining GP provision and wider public dissatisfaction, including political impacts.
Mr Wrigley is calling for greater powers for councils and local communities to ensure developers deliver healthcare infrastructure alongside housing.
The plan reflects the Liberal Democrats’ broader campaign on access to GP services, including ambitions to ensure patients can secure an appointment within seven days, or within 24 hours for urgent cases.
As with all policy proposals, any changes to planning requirements or NHS provision would require wider agreement and implementation at both local and national levels.
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