Councillors have reacted to the shock announcement that Abbotsbury Road Surgery is to close both its sites in March 2019.

Cllr Mike Byatt, who represents Westham on Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, said: “Losing an established practice that’s been central to the community for so many years is very disappointing news. The closure is bound to have an impact on many people, not just in terms of convenience but also due to the loss of the trusted relationship between GP and patient, which is something that takes years to develop.

“I will now be looking to the CCG to see how they plan to accommodate patients.”

Cllr David Harris, a county councillor for the area, called the closure “a tremendous blow.”

He added: “If it closes it will be a disaster for local people, particularly in Southill which will be left without a nearby alternative.”

Cllr Thomas Bartlett, who represents Chickerell and Chesil Bank on West Dorset District Council said: “It’s a great shame, let’s hope pressure can be put on the CCG to change its mind. Chickerell is growing rapidly – with so many new houses being built, the area needs a doctors’ surgery.”

However Cllr Ian Gardner, a representative of the same ward, said Chickerell residents would still be served by the surgery in Lanehouse.

He said: “A plan is in hand to provide a new and bigger health centre in the area.

“West Dorset District Council and Chickerell Town Council are in discussions with the CCG about provisions for the new facility, which will be in the region of Willowbed Hall.”