Another health centre that offered walk-in services will officially become appointment-only on November 1.

Harrow Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) confirmed that Belmont Health Centre, in Kenton Lane, will undergo the changes as part of a wider NHS initiative.

The decision comes a year after Alexandra Avenue Health Centre, in South Harrow, became an appointment-only facility.

Several politicians have criticised the moves, arguing that patients rely on walk-in centres and suggesting that it this will increase pressure on emergency services.

But CCG representatives pointed out that the changes are part of NHS England’s long-term plans aimed at improving overall access to primary care.

Dr Genevieve Small, chairman of Harrow CCG, said: “We want everyone in our borough to receive better access to GP services at a time that suits them, including appointments at evenings and weekends.

“Having a GP Access Centre also means there is no need to wait for long periods of time in the waiting room to be seen.”

Patients will now need to book an appointment with the surgery or call NHS 111.

The CCG said the centre will be able to treat the same number of patients it currently does – around 20,000 appointments a year – and slots are available seven days a week.

But only patients registered with a Harrow GP will be able to book appointments at Belmont.

Those in neighbouring areas such as Brent will have to contact surgeries in their boroughs.

The changes at Belmont were criticised by Cllr Pamela Fitzpatrick, who said they were representative of the Government’s failure to protect health services.

She has been supported by Harrow West MP, Gareth Thomas, who has been vocal in his opposition to the ceasing of walk-in services in his borough.

He launched a petition against the proposals at Belmont with the aim of bringing the issue to the attention of Health Secretary Matt Hancock.