Sidley surgey plans revealed

The proposed new two-storey building would occupy the same site as the current Turkey Road surgery of Dr Lawton and Partners, together with part of the grounds of adjoining Sidley House, purchased from Rother council.

The new scheme would offer a greatly improved environment and facilities for both patients and staff.

The proposed new surgery would have an internal floor area of about 1,000 squiare metres - almost three times the size of the current surgery.

Hastings and Rother Primary Care Trust said this week: "The increase in size would mean a wider range of services available for the 15,500 patients currently registered at the practice, including minor surgery, chronic disease management and sexual health clinics.

"It is also planned that there would be a pharmacy in the building, meaning patients would be able to get their healthcare and medication under the one roof.

"Plans for a new surgery in Sidley were first discussed in 2003, with outline planning permission granted in 2004.

"The current surgery was built in 1984 and at the time, was deemed to be modern and spacious. However, the number of new homes in the area together with changes to the way modern healthcare is provided have meant the surgery is now cramped, and it also does not comply with disabled access regulations."

Development of the new surgery would be undertaken by Carisbrooke Medical Centres, a local specialist developer which owns the current surgery building.

Maurice Brocklesby, Carisbrooke's Managing Director, applauds "the way in which the District Council, Primary Care Trust and Practice have co-operated to make this badly needed local healthcare scheme a reality."

If planning permission is granted, the playground adjoining the surgery will be improved with new play equipment provided. The surgery would operate from temporary accommodation on the adjoining Sidley House site during the building process.