NHS chiefs have agreed to stump up well over £300,000 to open a new surgery in Westbury-on-Severn.

Campaigners have been trying to get a new surgery since the old one closed its doors and transferred patients to Newnham.

Since then they have been battling for the cash to build a new surgery on the site of the old Scout hut near the village hall.

Councillor Norman Stephens (Ind, Newnham and Westbury) has been at the forefront of the campaign and chaired a public meeting to which more than 200 people turned up.

"This is really good news," he said after hearing the strategic health authority had agreed to use an under- spend to buy a modular building which will fit on the footprint of the old scout hut.

"People thought we had given up on it and said it would never happen but I have been having regular meetings with the PCT representative.

"It will take pressure off Newnham surgery where, I'm told, there is standing room only.

"It will also improve accessibility for older people who have had trouble getting there. Car parking is another great problem, so it will be good for the people of Newnham as well."

Coun Stephens will meet NHS chiefs on site to discuss the plans this week.

GPs will help to develop the design before the NHS applies for planning permission.

It is hoped the new surgery will be completed by the autumn.

The GP practice quit the Westbury surgery owned by dentist Dr Dave Barker when the lease came to The NHS Gloucestershire estates board and agreed to try and erect a modular structure, but were waiting for funds to become available.