THE construction of the new Vale Health and Wellbeing Centre in Pewsey is now going to be delayed after a number of changes were made to the recently granted planning application.

The new facilities are part of Wiltshire Council’s £80 million programme to help deliver health schemes to people across the county. Although planning permission has been granted, the works are set to take place later than once expected, originally planned to begin at the end of this year.

Since the original plans were submitted to Wiltshire Council, a number of changes have been made including dedicated space in the community areas for the Neighbourhood Policing Team, the reduction in number of squash courts so now there will only be one instead of two, and refurbishments to the second floor spaces.

John Thompson, cabinet member for health and wellbeing centres, said: “Local engagement has been key in helping with the plans for this new centre, which will provide a wide range of excellent community facilities. I’m delighted that these plans are now approved and that the programme to deliver the new centre can now start.”

The changes now mean that the current site will be open for use until the work can begin.

“The changes to the design have resulted in a review of the original timescale which mean the current centre will now remain open until work starts early next year. In the meantime, we will be working with the centre’s customers to ensure the continued use of the existing facilities until the centre closes and to provide regular updates to keep everyone informed of progress,” added Mr Thompson.

The work to the centre will now begin in February with the aim to have it open by summer of 2018.