Exciting news for Coulsdon as plans for a new GP health centre are finally moving forward after years of waiting and community support
Coulsdon: The new GP health centre is finally making headway. After nearly eight years of planning, a former car park is set to be transformed. The area has struggled with health services, and this centre is much needed.
Croydon Council recently shared plans to finalize an agreement with the NHS. They’re looking to fund and build this £6.3 million centre. The NHS will cover the costs, which is great news for Croydon’s budget.
A planning application is expected soon. The centre will be located where a car park used to be, near the old CALAT adult education centre. That site has been empty since CALAT closed in 2015.
Initially, plans for the health centre popped up in 2017. But it wasn’t until March 2024 that the council confirmed the sale of the car park to the NHS. It’s been a long wait, but it seems like things are finally moving.
Chris Philp, the local MP, reassured residents that construction would start soon. However, there was a hiccup with a car dealership using the car park for storage, which delayed things a bit.
Despite these bumps in the road, the community is rallying behind the project. Many locals feel a new health centre is long overdue. Currently, Coulsdon has only seven medical facilities, while the rest of Croydon has 49.
Since 2018, two GP practices have closed, leaving many patients scrambling for care. Coulsdon has a high number of older residents, many of whom need more medical support.
With new housing developments popping up, the demand for medical services is on the rise. The new centre will be well-connected, close to Coulsdon Town train station, making it easier for everyone to access.
Mr. Philp is committed to making this happen. He believes the centre will provide essential services for the town. Croydon Mayor Jason Perry is also on board, working closely with the NHS to ensure Coulsdon gets the health services it needs.
