Concerns of how a newly re-opened GP surgery is being staffed has continued to be questioned by councillors.

North Weald Bassett Parish Council have requested further clarification into The Lime Medical Centre branch in Wheelers Farm Gardens.

The surgery re-opened in April 2019 following an extensive 18-month refurbishment which was partially delayed when a contractor discovered asbestos at the site.

Managing partner Debbie Bodhanya was asked how many doctors there are, opening times, what sort of appointment system is available and whether appointments are available only for North Weald residents.

At Monday night’s council meeting a written reply made by Ms Bodhanya to parish council clerk Sue DeLuca, dated Wednesday, May 8, said: "The North Weald Surgery is open and patients are currently booking.

"The surgery will be focused on chronic disease management as we are specifically targeting the population of North Weald health needs.

"Registrations are with our practice as a whole and not with one site. Other patients will be able to use North Weald, as they can our other surgeries, as we deem necessary, but we would expect that predominantly this site (North Weald) will be used for North Weald residents."

North Weald resident, Vera Robinson, who spoke at parish council meeting mentioned how some residents who have had to attend appointments at Dunmow and Waltham Abbey.

She also confirmed an elderly couple who had paid £14 for a return taxi fare from North Weald to attend an appointment at The Limes Surgery in Epping.