Important news about our practice site locations. 

 

As part of our ongoing efforts to improve the quality of care we provide and to ensure we can continue to serve our patient population most effectively, we have made the decision to consolidate our services into one location which we anticipate will take place in the Autumn of 2026.

This means that we are applying to NHS Kent and Medway to close St James Medical Practice., If our application is approved, all appointments after this closure will then be scheduled at Grosvenor Medical Centre. By focusing on one location, we will be able to streamline operations and dedicate more resources to enhancing your experience and care. 

General Practice is facing unprecedented challenges and from a financial perspective, operating two sites has become increasingly unsustainable in the current and future climates. Please know this decision was not made lightly, and we are deeply committed to continuing to provide you with the highest levels of care. We understand this may cause some inconvenience or concerns, and we want to make this transition as smooth as possible for you. Our staff teams will remain the same so you will still be under the care of your named GP. 

We welcome your feedback about these proposals and will have a patient survey on our website to collate your thoughts on this matter. Please contact the practice staff if you wish to have a paper copy of the survey sent to you. All responses are anonymous. The survey will be open for 6 weeks, following this we will review all responses and we will be able to provide you with feedback. 

Complete the survey

We remain dedicated to your health and well-being and are grateful for your trust in us. Thank you for your understanding and continued support during this time of transition.

On Behalf of the Partners at Grosvenor and St James Medical Practice.

Why are you looking to close St James Medical Practice?

Providing services across two locations is becoming financially unsustainable for the practice – especially due to the running costs and maintenance of 2 buildings. The Practice and the Kent and Medway ICB have looked into alternative solutions to closing St James Medical Centre but it has not been possible to identify or provide any alternative at this time.

Who has made the decision to apply for closure of the St James site?

The GP Partners have made the difficult decision to apply for closure of the St James site. This is due to the reasons above. GP Practices across the UK are generally privately owned, but operate within the NHS framework. This means they are typically managed by GPs or other Partners as an independent business whilst holding exclusive contracts with the NHS to deliver primary care services to the public.

What are the benefits of St James Medical Practice closing?

Benefits for patients would include:

  • Service provision offered will be unaffected – appointment numbers will remain the same.
  • Continuity of care with consistent staffing all on one site
  • Only 1 site to visit where all care is given
  • Future sustainability of Grosvenor and St James Medical Practice

If the St James’ closure is approved, will it make the Grosvenor Practice busier?

The Grosvenor Medical Centre has the rooms and staff to schedule in the usual clinics that were running at St James. Appointments will continue to be booked as they are now

How far away is Grosvenor Medical Centre from St James Medical Practice?

The distance between the sites is 0.7 miles.

Will there be job cuts?

No – there are no planned job cuts for the proposed closure.

Will I still be able to see my usual GP/clinician?

Yes you will – we will not be making any staff changes in relation to the planned closure.

Will you still be doing home visits?

Housebound patients who are eligible to receive home visits will continue to do so.

Will it be more difficult getting an appointment?

We will continue to use the same Anima system and have the same clinicians so it will not be more difficult to get an appointment.

Will the opening hours remain the same?

Yes they will – Monday to Friday 08:00 – 18:30 (except for Bank Holidays and any protected learning afternoon closures).

Is there any parking at Grosvenor Medical Centre?

Unfortunately there is very limited parking (for disabled/very frail patients only) but we are within a few minutes’ walk of the Meadow Road and Royal Victoria Place car parks.

What if I don’t want to remain as a patient as a result of St James Medical Practice being closed?

If you do not want to remain as a patient of Grosvenor Medical Practice then you can choose to register at another local practice which is taking patients and where you are in their catchment area.

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Published: Oct 28, 2025