Wealden News – August – Security measures installed to protect medical centre site

Wealden District Council is progressing plans to deliver a new, modern, purpose‑built medical centre to serve the communities of Polegate and Willingdon. The proposed facility responds to a critical shortage in local GP capacity and will help meet current and future healthcare needs across the area.

The Council is working in partnership with the Sussex Integrated Care Board (ICB) and local GP practices to facilitate delivery of a high‑quality, sustainable primary care facility that supports improved access to healthcare services and long‑term community wellbeing.

Why a new medical centre is needed

Existing GP premises in the Polegate and Willingdon area are undersized and face increasing pressure due to population growth, changes in healthcare delivery, and rising patient demand.

A new medical centre would:

• Increase capacity for GP and treatment services
• Provide modern, accessible facilities aligned with NHS standards
• Improve patient experience and accessibility
• Support long‑term healthcare provision for the local community

Location and planning status

The proposed medical centre will be located at the Hindsland site, which was selected following feasibility work due to its existing outline planning permission, infrastructure connections, and suitability for development.

• Outline planning permission for a medical centre was granted in 2022.
• A reserved matters planning application was approved on 29 October 2025.
• Wealden District Council has now taken possession of the Hindsland site, enabling the next stages of project delivery. The Council continues to work with partners to progress the development of the new medical centre

Proposed design and facilities

The approved proposals for the new medical centre include:

• A purpose‑built building of up to three storeys
• Fully step‑free and accessible design throughout
• 85 parking spaces, including accessible bays and ambulance access
• Reception and waiting areas designed to improve patient flow
• Clinical space to accommodate two GP practices
• An on‑site pharmacy

The building has been designed for flexibility to support future healthcare models and potential extended services.

Sustainability and accessibility

Sustainability has been embedded into the project’s design and delivery principles. The proposed building is intended to meet BREEAM Excellent standards and includes:

• Low‑carbon and energy‑efficient materials
• Solar panels and efficient building systems
• Electric vehicle charging points
• Secure cycle storage and pedestrian access

The project aligns with NHS sustainability objectives and the Council’s Climate Emergency Plan, supporting the transition towards a net‑zero future.

Patient engagement

During March and April 2026, the GP practices undertook a patient engagement exercise regarding the proposed new medical centre.

Feedback gathered through this process has helped inform ongoing project development.

Further updates will be shared on this page as the project progresses.