Wealden District Council is progressing plans for a new, purpose-built Polegate & Willingdon Medical Centre on Eastbourne Road which it plans to be ready by early 2028. You can read more about the project here: Polegate and Willingdon Medical Centre | Let's Talk Wealden

What is being proposed?

Subject to the necessary approvals, Downlands Medical Centre and Vita Healthcare Manor Park Surgery propose to move into the new building on Eastbourne Road.

This would mean that both practices’ current sites would close and, instead of attending appointments at the existing premises, patients would access services from the new medical centre.

Although we would be sharing a new building, we would continue to operate as two separate GP practices.

What this means for you

If this proposal goes ahead:

·      You can continue to contact the practices in the usual ways, including using the same telephone number.

·      You do not need to take any action, and you do not need to re-register as a patient.

·      There will be no break in access to care during the move.

·      Existing practice staff will transfer, so you are likely to see the same clinical and administrative team members you are used to dealing with.

Why we believe this is a positive opportunity

A purpose-built medical centre will provide a modern environment designed around patient care. It is an opportunity to improve accessibility and facilities, and to support the future delivery of local NHS services.

Bringing both practices into one new building also creates a real opportunity for collaborative working, while still preserving each practice’s identity and the relationships you already have with your usual team.

Your feedback

We recognise that a change of location may be a concern for some patients. We want to understand what matters most to you and what we can do to make any transition as smooth as possible.

We would be grateful if you could share your views by completing our short patient survey here:  Polegate and Willingdon Medical Centre | NHS Sussex. The survey will be open until Friday 24^th April.

Keeping you updated

We will provide regular updates as plans progress, including via phone messages, the practice websites, and information displayed in the practices.