The NHS has promised to focus on Tottenham following a damning report by a health watchdog.

Healthwatch Haringey’s study found a serious lack of GPs in the borough, with 116,000 fewer GP appointments available annually than recommended by the NHS.

The report criticises both NHS England and Haringey Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) for failing to have a strategy in place to address the issue.

Tottenham Hale was found to be the worst area studied, with 18,000 fewer appointments available to people annually than is recommended by the NHS.

A spokesman for NHS England in London today said the group were aware of the issue, and that work has begun to address it.

He added:  “Additionally we have prioritised the need to develop a primary care plan for Tottenham, which will meet the current and future needs of the community.”

Haringey CCG said the responsibility for commissioning GP services fell with NHS England, adding: “The CCG is aware that some local people have expressed concerns about GP appointments in Haringey.

 “Haringey CCG is working with NHS England, supporting them to ensure all residents are able to access GP care when they need it.”

Healthwatch Haringey say any plans to close hospitals and pass the burden of care to GPs will become “unachievable” unless the shortage of GPs is dealt with.

Sharon Grant OBE, chairman of Healthwatch Haringey, said: “We were shocked to find the extent of the deficit. This is a serious situation, which clearly requires an urgent response.”