TWO family doctors have strongly criticised Government plans to impose a new kind of health centre in a North-East town which they say is already well served by GPs.

Darlington GPs Drs Robert Upshall and Ahmet Fuat argue that a new health centre which is likely to be based at the existing NHS walk-in treatment centre in King Street is unnecessary, a waste of public money and a threat to existing practices.

"This new centre will suck the lifeblood from existing practices," said Dr Upshall, senior partner at the Whinfield Medical Practice.

"If it is successful it risks destabilising existing practices and if it is not successful it will be a monumental waste of money," he added.

Another Darlington GP, Dr Ahmet Fuat, said: "I am not convinced that this new health centre is needed. Darlington already has 11 established GP practices which are performing well. The money should be invested in the existing surgeries."

The move is part of a £40m wave of new health centres ordered by Health Minister Lord Ara Darzi to improve access to NHS primary care services, particularly in areas of poor health.

Dr Upshall said the plan - currently subject to public consultation - was a solution looking for a problem and would disrupt continuity of care.

The two GPs also argue that the new centre is likely to be run by a private health company employing salaried doctors.

Darlington PCT's head of planning, Lou Okello said: "Clearly the public are demanding greater access to primary care both in terms of the range of services offered and their ability to access them.

"Some GPs in the town see there is a real opportunity for joint working with the new centre and the tendering process is open to all doctors.

"The centre will provide residents and visitors with walk-in or bookable appointments. There is no need to register, though patients can if they wish.

"It will provide much better access for people who find it difficult to make appointments during surgery hours."

A Department of Health spokesman said: "The proposed new health centres are not intended to replace existing healthcare services but should be seen as a welcome complement to the services already provided by GP practices."