Unit opening 'a boon to patients'

ONE of Somerset's hospitals can offer more appointments to local residents after its newest unit was officially opened.

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Catherine Farr and Ross Dowsett with guests and colleagues at the opening ceremony of the new purpose-built outpatient unit

The Practice Plus Group Hospital on Bucklers Way in Shepton Mallet, a stone's throw from the town's NHS community hospital, provides treatment for both NHS and private patients, offering a range of services including hip and knee replacements. Construction began in September 2025 on the new Mendip Unit opposite the main entrance, which formed part of the hospital’s 20th anniversary celebrations.

The new unit was officially opened by hospital director Catherine Farr and chief executive Ross Dowsett on February 19, accompanied by town councillors David Crisfield and Jane Nicklin.

The new facility comprises four consulting rooms and two fully equipped procedure rooms, with a dedicated minor theatre, expanded outpatient space, additional consultant-led clinical rooms and a private consulting suite.