An already over-subscribed doctor’s surgery in Halstead cannot cope with the influx of nearly 300 homes without expanding, the NHS has warned.
NHS England has estimated that about £100,000 will have to be spent on extra space at Elizabeth Courtauld Surgery in Factory Lane West to accommodate 700 extra people if the development off Oak Road is given the go-ahead.
The surgery is currently 178 people over its 12,332 patient capacity.
Gladman Developments hopes to build 292 houses houses on the edge of the town, including a convenience store, public open space and a children’s play area.
However, the developer failed to demonstrate how they would help with healthcare services in the town.
NHS England, which commissions primary health care services, wrote in a response to the application: “This development is likely to have an impact on the services of one GP practice within the Braintree District Council locality."
See this week's Halstead Gazette for the full story.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here