Over 1,200 residents are backing Anthony Browne’s petition, urging local authorities to address the absence of a dedicated GP surgery in Northstowe.
In response to mounting concerns from the Northstowe community, Mr Browne launched the petition last month calling on the District Council, Homes England, the Department of Health, and all relevant stakeholders to prioritise and expedite the establishment of a GP surgery in the new town.
Since then, 1,206 residents have signed, with many noting the strain on existing services in surrounding villages and the challenges for vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and those with mobility issues.
Despite significant investment and promises of development, Northstowe continues to face challenges in providing basic amenities. A temporary community centre was put in place after several schemes failed, and while a sports pavilion has recently opened, there is still no permanent shop, café, pub, or GP surgery in the town.
Current plans envisage a Civic Hub to include a ‘healthcare space’ in 2028. Council documents make reference to GP services, but there is no specific agreement, vote, or assurance from SCDC that this will be a fully equipped GP practice.
Northstowe was promoted as a 'healthy town, prioritising wellbeing as a core aspect of its ethos and design. However, despite promises made to residents regarding essential local health services, the absence of a dedicated GP surgery has remained a significant concern, most recently discussed on last week’s BBC Question Time.
Mr Browne emphasised the urgency of the situation, stating, " The lack of a GP surgery in Northstowe is not just a planning failure but a threat to the health and wellbeing of the community. It is time that the relevant parties put their heads together and came up with a deliverable solution.
As an MP, I am very keen to facilitating this dialogue, and I have already approached the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Integrated Care System to kickstart this process. I am committed to supporting all efforts to quickly establish of a GP surgery in Northstowe."
