Health bosses are putting firm plans together to build a new medical surgery off Prince Charles Avenue, Mackworth, opposite the area’s shopping precinct
(Image: Local Democracy Reporting Service)
A major deal has been agreed to build a much-needed new GP surgery in Derby.
Derby City Council leaders have gave the nod to sell a section of public open space in Mackworth to the Derby and Derbyshire Integrated Care Board (ICB).
Health bosses are putting firm plans together to build a new medical surgery off Prince Charles Avenue, opposite the area’s shopping precinct.
It is said a new medical centre in Mackworth is ‘desperately’ needed with residents having to travel to other areas to see a doctor. A campaign for better facilities has been going for some time.
A report say current healthcare facilities in Mackworth are “no longer considered fit for purpose”. Action is also needed with thousands of more residents set to move into new homes.
It is not yet known when building work could start but a planning application to the council would need to be submitted and approved first.
An ICB spokesperson said: “The existing services are delivered from a former semi-detached house, which is deemed too small for the provision of modern general practice.
“A new facility would provide a high-quality environment that supports clinicians to provide the people of Mackworth with good access to tailored healthcare.”
Details of how much the new medical centre will cost are yet to be disclosed publicly. The ICB says an estimated cost “remains commercially confidential”.
Leading Labour councillors approved for the sale of land to be agreed by both parties at a Derby City Council cabinet meeting on Wednesday (May 13).
Council leader Nadine Peatfield said: “What welcome news, absolutely brilliant progress for Mackworth and well needed.”
‘Ecstatic’ Mackworth and New Zealand councillor Ndukwe Onuoha told the meeting residents have to go to Allestree and other areas to see a GP due to a lack of facilities.
He said: “This has been a long time coming. I think it has gone on for years.
“The location is not just ideal but quite sensible. There is a bus stop so residents can use the bus and stop right outside the GP surgery should it be approved by planning. There’s a pharmacy across the road.
“Years of campaigning have paid off. Residents have said they are very happy with this.”
Councillor Alison Martin, cabinet member for health, highly welcomed the plans and said she was set for talks with health bosses to help push the plans further forward.
She added: “I can’t think of a better use for that land. I think we all know Mackworth has a lot of open space but what it doesn’t have is easy access to a GP.
“Improving GP access is one of five priorities for the government and our ICB.”