Spring 2026 opening for Crossgar surgery

Spring 2026 opening for Crossgar surgery

23 April 2025

WORK is underway on an extension at Crossgar surgery and is expected to be completed by next spring.

The South Eastern Trust is spearheading the work at the James Street surgery with the investment programme including the refurbishment of the existing practice, as well as a new extension to accommodate the Primary Care Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) currently based in John Street.

Dr Anna-Marie Trainor — chair the Down GP Federation and a GP at the Crossgar surgery — said the extension will provide a modern and up to date environment for the patients and staff of the surgery. 

“It will allow the integration of the whole MDT team under one roof,” she confirmed.

“This includes doctors, practice and district nursing, health visitors, pharmacists, social work teams, mental health practitioners, physiotherapists and our administration staff.

“It will help everyone work together as a team which will enhance patient care and the wellbeing of the local community.”

MDTs in primary care allow GP practices to focus not just on managing ill-health, but also on the physical, mental and social wellbeing of the community and are a welcomed addition to the existing practice team. 

There is an increased focus on prevention and early intervention initiatives, ensuring the needs of patients are met at the earliest possible opportunity, reducing the need for onward referrals into hospital and community services.

Patients registered with MDT GP practices benefit from direct access to a range of services, enabling them to book appointments without the need for a consultation with their GP.

The health trust’s Director of Primary Care and Older People and the organisation’s lead for multi-disciplinary teams in primary care, Clare-Marie Dickson, said “it’s fantastic” that the health trust has started building work at Crossgar surgery.

She said the investment brings professions together to support the wider health needs of the community, in a modern health centre setting. 

“This is a good news story for the village and as a native of Crossgar, it is a project close to my heart,” she added.