Cabinet to consider 'lift off' of Health & Wellbeing Hub

With work to the upper floors of the Dacre Road Car Park nearing completion, the focus of the Health & Wellbeing Hub project turns to the development of a new Primary Care Network, including two new GP surgeries, a new pharmacy and the expansion of Wave Active at Seahaven Swim & Fitness, and integration with primary care services to support the rehabilitation of patients and promotion of healthier lifestyles. A creative hub is also being developed to provide space for co-working and start-up businesses.

More broadly, the plans transform a strategically important location in the centre of Newhaven, creating jobs, encouraging footfall to retailers and other services, providing new commercial space, enhancing access and signposting and making the town centre an attractive place to live, work and visit.

Councillor Zoe Nicholson, Leader of Lewes District Council, said:

"Redeveloping any brownfield site is not without its challenges, especially the rapidly rising costs that are affecting construction projects everywhere.  However, thanks to our unflinching determination to deliver the town centre transformation we all want, we are now at the point of potential lift off for the most exciting elements of the whole project. 

"With my Cabinet colleagues, we will consider the updated business case and main contractor appointment and if approved, set in train the next steps leading to a completion of the entire project within two years."

The main construction site has been covered by a temporary roof to enable work on the roof and to allow the building to fully dry out following extensive rainwater leaks. The scaffolding has also provided essential structural support to various areas.

Councillor Nicholson added:

"I know it is frustrating when these highly complex projects take a little longer than expected to complete, but the prospect of residents in Newhaven having access to the high-quality healthcare they so richly deserve, is something that drives us on to get this vital redevelopment completed."

The council is now working on a phased approach to the opening of the top deck of the car park, with an additional 51 spaces being made available to the public.

Other projects the council and partners have either completed, are underway or planned in Newhaven include a 3G football pitch at Newhaven Football Club, ferry terminal refurbishment, a new fish landing stage and processing plant, major improvements to two local recreations grounds, the restoration of Newhaven Fort and a new restaurant on West Beach promenade.

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