September 26th, 2024.



James MacCleary, MP for Lewes, met with the Chief Executive of NHS Sussex and senior staff this week to discuss the urgent need for investment in health care facilities across Seaford, Polegate, and Willingdon.

The discussions centred on proposals for the Seaford Health Hub and health facilities for Polegate and Willingdon. There was also a discussion on the critical need for improved services, particularly in light of increasing pressures on social care and hospital referrals.

During the meeting, James emphasised the need for a new health centre to replace the outdated facility on Dane Road in Seaford, pointing out the difficulties residents face in accessing essential healthcare services. He also urged NHS leadership to prioritize financial support for the Polegate and Willingdon health hub, where two sites have been granted planning permission as part of housing developments, but currently lacks the necessary funding.

The Lib Dems recently set out their plan to rescue the NHS which focuses around investment in preventative care, increasing access to GPs and dentists, and providing a greater focus on social care and mental health.

James MacCleary said: "One of the issues I hear most about in Seaford, Willingdon and Polegate is the need for improved health facilities to help with health access. It’s simply not fair that our local doctors, nurses, and patients are stuck with outdated services. We need to see real investment in our health services.

“I’m thankful to the CEO of NHS Sussex and the team for taking the time to meet with me and I’m pleased they are engaging with proposals on local health facilities.

“The pressures on social care and frontline services are affecting how quickly patients can get the care they need. It’s frustrating and stressful for everyone involved. We must act now to ease these pressures so that people can receive the care they deserve without unnecessary delays.

“I’m here to fight for the investment we need to improve our local GP services and across our health and social care system. I’ve reached out to the Health Secretary to ask that Seaford, Polegate and Willingdon get the funding necessary for better healthcare infrastructure.

“I’m proud to support the Liberal Democrats in calling for an emergency Health and Care Budget. Our NHS staff are working tirelessly, and they need the resources to provide the quality care our communities deserve.”


Pictured: James MacCleary in conversation with local councillors outside Seaford Medical Practice