FAQs
Which GP Practices will occupy the building once it is completed?
We are currently working with the Partners from Downlands Medical Centre and Manor Park Medical Centre, with a view to both practices taking space in the new facility.
How many doctors is it envisaged will be employed at the site going forward?
We can't comment on the specific number of doctors, however we anticipate that the list size would be able to expand from a current circa 17,000 patients to a possible projected list size of around 22,000-24,000 patients.
How will the operational costs be met? i.e. The operational funding for the day to day running costs after the centre is built?
Once the facility is built, the GPs will be responsible for the internal day-to-day running costs of the building (energy and utilities, cleaning, internal maintenance etc.). Wealden District Council as landlord will be responsible for any external repairs and maintenance.
How are people who do not live in walking distance and rely on public transport expected to get to the site, as it is not on the bus routes?
Through the planning process, formal consultation with East Sussex Highways will ensure that the new development is accessible and well-connected by sustainable transport. As a statutory consultee, the Highways Authority reviews planning applications to assess impacts on the local network and identify opportunities to enhance connectivity.
During the application process, East Sussex Highways may recommend conditions or Section 106 obligations to secure improvements - such as new or upgraded bus stops, real-time passenger information displays, enhanced pedestrian access to bus or rail services, or contributions towards increased bus service frequencies.
As an alternative site, could the old police station sites in the centre of Polegate be used?
We are not aware of this alternative site suggestion, however the chosen site has been granted outline planning approval which confirms its suitability for the medical centre to be delivered on this site.