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We are proposing a new medical centre on Silver Street, on the site of the former Great Barford Lower School. The current GP Surgery will close, and services will be delivered from the new building.
The aim is to provide a modern, accessible healthcare facility that meets the needs of the local community now and into the future.
The project has already made positive progress. A Principal Design and Build Contractor, Imaging Matters (IML), has been appointed and is developing designs for this new building,
The proposal is still being developed, and we are sharing it to help keep residents informed and provide an opportunity for feedback.
What is being proposed?
The proposal includes, a new purpose-built GP surgery with:
- modern consulting and treatment rooms
- a pharmacy/dispensary
- improved waiting and reception areas
- dedicated staff and support spaces
The building is single storey to make access simple for all users and to keep the scale in keeping with the surrounding area.
Location and site
The proposed site is located on Silver Street in Great Barford, around five miles from the centre of Bedford. The site was previously occupied by a school building and is surrounded by existing housing and a nearby primary school. The development will make use of the existing access points and previously developed areas of the site to minimise impact on neighbours and the environment
Design approach
The design is being developed with the following priorities:
Simple and easy to use
The entrance and reception are clearly visible to help visitors find their way easily.
Patient comfort and privacy
The layout of the surgery is arranged to reduce stress and protect privacy during visits.
Safe and efficient layout
Staff and patient areas are carefully organised to support safe and effective care.
In keeping with the village
The design will have familiar materials such as brick to reflect local character.
Access and parking
The proposals include:
- up to 42 on-site car parking spaces for patients and staff
- accessible parking spaces close to the entrance of the surgery
- cycle parking to encourage sustainable travel
- a dedicated ambulance/drop-off area
- parking levels are based on local planning standards for medical facilities
Landscaping and environment
We are aiming to:
- retain as many existing trees and green areas as possible
- improve biodiversity across the site
- provide new planting and landscaped areas
- include sustainable drainage features (SUDS)
New developments are required to deliver a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain, which this scheme will be designed to achieve
Sustainability
The building is being designed to:
- reduce energy use through efficient layout and construction
- maximise natural light and ventilation
- include panel technology
What happens next?
The project is currently at an early design stage. Next steps include:
- further design development
- public engagement
- engagement with the local planning authority
- submission of a planning application
Have your say
For project-related enquiries, please contact Imaging Matters (IML): info@iml-healthcare.com
We welcome feedback from the local community. Your views will help shape the design as it develops.
Artist impressions and plans
Artist impression of outside of building
Floor plan
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Site plan
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Frequently asked questions
Why is a new medical centre needed?
The existing facilities no longer meet modern healthcare requirements. This new medical centre will provide improved space, accessibility and services to better support the growing needs of the local community.
Where will the new medical centre be located?
The proposed site is on Silver Street, on land previously occupied by Great Barford Lower School.
What will the building include?
The new centre is designed to include:
- six GP consulting rooms
- two treatment rooms
- a dispensary (pharmacy)
- waiting and reception areas
- staff and support spaces
It will provide a modern, efficient environment for both patients and staff.
How big will the building be?
The proposed medical centre will be a single-storey building of approximately 540 square metres.
It is being designed to be compact and efficient, providing modern healthcare facilities while minimising its impact on the surrounding area.
What parking will be provided?
Parking is being designed in line with local planning standards for medical centres. Approximately 42 parking spaces will be provided on site.
This includes:
- general parking spaces
- accessible parking close to the entrance
- cycle parking
- a designated ambulance and drop-off area
Will a new surgery increase traffic in the area?
There may be some additional vehicle movements, however:
- the site already had a previous use (school)
- access arrangements will be designed to operate safely
- parking is provided on-site to reduce pressure on surrounding roads
A transport assessment will be carried out as part of the planning process if required.
What will happen to the existing site?
The existing buildings on site are proposed to be removed to make way for the new medical centre.Where possible, existing trees and green areas will be retained and enhanced.
What will happen to the current GP Surgery?
The existing GP Surgery is expected to close once services have moved into the new GP Surgery. Further details will be confirmed closer to the opening of the new building.
Will green space be lost?
The development has been positioned on previously developed parts of the site where possible. Existing landscaping will largely be retained, and new planting will be introduced to improve biodiversity overall.
What is biodiversity net gain?
New developments are required to improve biodiversity by at least 10%. This means the site will include additional planting and habitat features so that it is better for wildlife than it is now.
Will the building fit in with the surrounding area?
Yes. The design has been developed to reflect the local character by:
- using materials such as brick
- keeping the building low-rise (single storey)
- using a simple pitched roof form
Will the building be accessible?
Yes. The building has been designed to be fully accessible, including:
- step-free access
- accessible parking
- accessible WC facilities
How will the building be environmentally sustainable?
The design includes:
- energy-efficient building layout
- good levels of natural light
- potential for solar panels
- sustainable drainage features
Will there be disruption during construction?
There will be some temporary disruption during construction, as with any development. Measures will be put in place to minimise impacts such as noise, dust and traffic.
When will construction start?
The project is currently at an early stage. Construction will only begin after planning approval has been obtained and detailed design is completed.
How can I provide feedback?
We welcome feedback from the community. You can share your comments via email to info@iml-healthcare.com
Will my GP surgery move to this new building
The intention is that local GP services will be provided from the new medical centre. Further details will be shared closer to completion.
Will I need to register again?
No. If your GP practice relocates to the new building, your registration will remain the same. You will continue to access services as normal.
Will the appointments booking change?
No, patients will continue booking appointments in the same way they do now. You will still be able to book appointments in the usual ways (online, by phone or in person).
Will there be more appointments available?
The new building is designed to provide improved facilities and more efficient use of space, which should help support better access to appointments over time.
Will there be a pharmacy on site?
Yes, the proposals include a dispensary, allowing patients to collect prescriptions directly from the medical centre where appropriate.
Is the building easy to access for people with mobility issues?
Yes. The building has been designed to be fully accessible, including:
- step-free access
- accessible parking close to the entrance
- accessible toilets
Will there be enough seating in the waiting area?
Yes. The waiting area has been designed to provide a comfortable and appropriately sized space for patients.
Will patient privacy be protected?
Yes. The layout includes:
- private consulting rooms
- a separate interview room for sensitive discussions
- a design that avoids unnecessary movement through public areas
Will the new building reduce waiting times?
While waiting times depend on several factors, the improved layout and facilities are intended to support more efficient service delivery.
Will there be facilities for families and children?
Yes. The building includes facilities such as baby changing and space to support families attending appointments.
Will it be easy to find my way around?
Yes. The building has been designed with simple, clear layouts so that:
- reception is visible on entry
- consulting rooms are easy to locate
- wayfinding is straightforward
Will there be a space for mental health?
Yes. Dedicated rooms are included to allow for private and sensitive conversations.
Will there be parking close to the entrance?
Yes. Accessible parking spaces and drop-off areas are located close to the main entrance for ease of access.
Will there be somewhere to park bicycles?
Yes. Cycle parking will be provided to support patients and staff who wish to travel sustainably.
Will services change once the building opens?
The new centre is designed to support existing services and allow for future improvements. Any changes to services will be communicated by your GP practice.
Will the new medical centre be big enough for future demand?
Yes. The building is being designed to support the community not just now, but in the future.
This includes allowing for:
- a growing local population
- changes in how healthcare is delivered
- the potential to expand services over time
The layout has been planned so the building can adapt if needs change.