Polegate and Willingdon Residents to Benefit from New Healthcare Facility
Wealden District Council has officially acquired a site for a new medical centre in East Sussex, marking a significant step forward in enhancing local healthcare services. The facility, which will serve residents of Polegate and Willingdon, aims to improve access to primary care amid growing population demands.
New Healthcare Hub Moves Forward
The newly acquired site, located on the A272 between Polegate and Willingdon, already has outline planning permission for the development of a modern medical facility. The project is part of broader efforts to expand healthcare infrastructure in response to increasing patient needs.
Kelvin Williams, the council’s lead member for public health and asset management, emphasized the importance of strengthening health services, stating, “It is vital to ensure that our health infrastructure keeps pace with the growing population.”
Council and NHS Collaboration
In December, Wealden District Council’s cabinet approved feasibility studies to advance the project, working closely with local health officials to ensure the new centre meets community requirements. The collaboration between the council and NHS Sussex underscores a commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare.
Amy Galea, chief primary care and integration officer at NHS Sussex, praised the latest development as a “really positive step” toward providing essential health services closer to residents’ homes. She reiterated the NHS’s dedication to supporting local healthcare improvements.
Support from Local Leaders
The initiative has received strong backing from local representatives, including MP James MacCleary, who acknowledged past delays and funding challenges but expressed optimism about the progress. “Residents have been let down for too long by delays and lack of funds, but now we are making real progress,” MacCleary said.
Additionally, he advocated for a satellite facility to remain in Polegate town centre to ensure continued accessibility for residents who may face difficulties traveling to the new site.
Next Steps and Future Developments
With the site now secured, planning and development work will continue, focusing on designing a facility that meets the needs of Polegate and Willingdon residents. The council and NHS Sussex will collaborate on finalizing plans, securing necessary approvals, and ensuring timely completion.
The establishment of this new medical centre represents a crucial investment in local healthcare, promising improved medical services and greater convenience for the community. Updates on construction timelines and further developments will be provided as the project progresses.
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