WORK on Upton's new doctors' surgery is set to begin by the end of the year.

GP George Wilson said he was confident work would start before Christmas and would take up to a year for completion.

Planners originally gave the go-ahead for the new development at the town's Tunnel Hill site in October 2003.

However, work was delayed while legal agreements between planning officers, architects and applicants were finalised.

The delay led to spiralling costs, which appeared to be threatening the facility.

Dr Tim Davies, South Worcestershire Primary Care Trust deputy chief executive, spoke at a district council Overview and Scrutiny commission meeting last week.

"I can't tell you when it's going to be sorted out," he said. "There seems to be an issue around the build costs. The district valuer is concerned about that and wants to know why it is costing more than other comparable schemes," he said.

Dr Wilson said costs had increased, but this was only due to planning delays.

He added: "I have spoken to my lawyer this week, however, and I'm confident that we are just about ready to go."

District councillor Mary Wilkinson is delighted the plans finally look set to be realised.

"We're all anxious about the centre and are so glad it's going to happen," she said.

"It will make such a difference to Upton and the whole district."

The new surgery has been described as a one-stop health centre.

As well as the GP practice, it will house an optician, dispensary, dental practice and physiotherapy centre.