GP surgery expansion raises parking concerns

A major expansion of a GP surgery in Peterborough could be approved despite concerns over parking.

Werrington Health Care has submitted plans for a two-storey extension at its Church Street site, including four new consultation rooms and a backup emergency generator.

The practice said the development was needed to accommodate growing patient demand following the transfer of patients from the Werrington Health Centre, which shut in August 2025.

The plans have been opposed by the local highway authority, which says the development could worsen an existing shortage of parking spaces. Under the proposals, on-site parking would be reduced from 60 spaces to 54.

The site provides a range of services, including a pharmacy and a dentist, and the proposals would increase staffing levels by seven full-time and 12 part-time employees, bringing the total workforce to 85.

The application has attracted 30 objections from residents, who raised concerns about traffic and the impact on the surrounding area.

Objectors said congestion was already a problem near the surgery, with vehicles regularly parking on nearby residential streets. Some also expressed concerns that the site was becoming a "mini hospital".

Despite the objections, planning officers recommended the application for approval.

They said that the benefits of expanding local healthcare provision in the area outweighed the harm caused by the loss of parking spaces.

A decision will be made by Peterborough City Council's planning committee on Tuesday.

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