Wealden District Council has given the green light to revised plans for a new community hub and health centre in Mayfield, set to replace the existing Memorial Hall.
The proposed development will feature a multi-purpose hall, office space, health consultation rooms, and parking facilities. The site aims to address the increasing demand for local services, with health care providers highlighting the need for updated facilities.
Andrew Cornell, managing partner of Ashdown Forest Medical Centre and Woodhill Surgery, emphasized that the current premises were no longer “fit for purpose” and that without a new facility, the practice could struggle to meet NHS standards in the future. “We’ve seen a significant rise in patients since we took over in 2013, from 2,200 registered patients to nearly 3,800 today,” he said, stressing the urgency of the project.
Despite the council’s approval, several objectors raised concerns about the scheme. At a council meeting on Thursday, they highlighted issues with the design, the project’s location within the High Weald National Landscape, and potential impacts on local traffic. Mayfield resident Guy Bridge voiced concerns, noting that there was “substantial opposition from parishioners,” citing “design flaws, ecological, environmental, and major highway concerns.”
In response, the council received 222 public comments on the proposal, with 162 of those in favor of the plans.
A previous proposal to demolish and redevelop the Memorial Hall was approved in January 2023 but was eventually abandoned due to rising costs. The new plans are seen as a more feasible solution to meet the growing needs of the community.
The project is now set to move forward, with expectations of improving both local healthcare services and community facilities.
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