Medical Practice Resumes Operations Nearly Two Years Post-Fire

The medical practice has resumed operations at its original location within a Nottinghamshire village hall, nearly two years following its destruction by fire. Gotham Memorial Hall, situated off Nottingham Road, had been inaccessible since a fire erupted there in February 2023. Reconstruction efforts for the structure, which also accommodated the Orchard Surgery Practice, commenced several months subsequent to the incident. Both the medical practice and its dispensary services recommenced operations at the location on Monday. During the period of repairs, patients were required to travel to the surgery’s affiliated site, located four-and-a-half miles distant in Kegworth. Andy Brown, who serves as a councillor for Gotham and holds the position of mayor of Rushcliffe, characterized the development as “great news” for patients. Brown stated: “A lot of people are going to welcome this back because they won’t have to rely on volunteer drivers to take them over to Kegworth or drive over there.” He continued: “I was hoping it could be rebuilt quicker but because the doctor’s surgery was involved there was a lot of negotiations taking part.” Brown further remarked: “It’s taken a long time, but it’s back now and it’s going to be better than it was before so it’s great news all round.” Brown indicated that additional work was necessary prior to the reopening of other sections of the building, such as the library and the main hall area, at the location. He mentioned that the hall’s reopening was anticipated for February. “We’ve been holding the parish council meetings in the parish church and sometimes it’s very cold and they hold them on the night of bell ringing practice,” Brown added. “It becomes difficult to hear what is being said so it would be nice to get back into the memorial hall for the meetings and attending them in the warm and proper place it should be.” Readers can follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or through WhatsApp at 0808 100 2210. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.