Exciting news for Coulsdon as plans for a new GP health centre are finally moving forward after years of waiting
Coulsdon: The long-awaited GP health centre in Coulsdon is finally making headway. After nearly eight years of planning, a new application is on the way for a site that used to be a car park.
Recently, Croydon Council shared some good news. They’re close to finalizing a deal with the local NHS to fund and build this much-needed centre. The £6.3 million project will be mostly covered by the NHS, which is a relief for the council’s budget.
The planning application is expected to be submitted soon. The new centre will be located where the CALAT adult education centre used to be, right on Malcolm Road.
After CALAT closed in 2015, the council decided to sell the site to help tackle its massive debt. The idea for a health centre popped up back in 2017, but it wasn’t until March 2024 that the sale to the NHS was confirmed.
Chris Philp, the local MP, reassured everyone that construction would kick off soon. But there was a hiccup; a local car dealership had a contract to use the car park for storage, which delayed things a bit.
Despite these bumps in the road, the community is really behind the project. Many folks feel that a new health centre is long overdue, especially since the south of Croydon only has seven medical facilities compared to 49 in the rest of the borough.
Since 2018, two GP practices have closed, leaving thousands of patients scrambling for care. Coulsdon has been hit hard, with many residents having to register with GPs outside the area.
Plus, Coulsdon has a lot of older residents, many of whom need extra care. The demand for medical services has skyrocketed due to new housing developments in the area.
The new centre will be in a great spot, close to Coulsdon Town train station, making it easy for everyone to get there. The Integrated Care Board is hopeful about getting the planning application approved by the end of March.
Mr. Philp is committed to making this happen. He said he’s been working hard for years to bring this health centre to life, emphasizing how important it is for the community.
Croydon Mayor Jason Perry also expressed his excitement, stating that he’s been collaborating with the NHS to secure this new facility. He’s thrilled to see progress, even if it’s taken longer than expected.
