A wider masterplan for the site, including 62 homes, was withdrawn last year and the new plans feature a reduced commercial area and medical elements only, with the homes now removed from this application. 

Feedback from the previous planning application has informed the new plans and they now result in reduced traffic generation, no harm to heritage assets, the delivery of improved sewers and no overlooking on this previously developed land. The proposed development will take place on predominantly brownfield land and within the existing settlement boundaries of the town.   

The proposals will still offer a massive economic boost and create around 100 new jobs for local people. A much needed, modern, and purpose-built medical centre would provide improved services for the people of Epworth and surrounding area.   

During previous extensive consultation on the plans, the community had been very positive about new medical facilities and potential for more shopping choice and new jobs. 

The plans will also include a modern new purpose-built garden centre, replacing the existing store which has been in Epworth since 1978, and retain a popular facility which has been under the control of the Holmes family for over 60 years.

The inclusion of the new medical centre follows discussions with the local NHS partners, and the developer has secured support from South Axholme Practice for a dedicated health facility on the site to serve the community. 

The letter of support from GP Partner, Dr Borrill, said the proposed facility would “future proof resources available to the practice in order to deliver the ever-expanding range of services that will be delivered within primary care”. A new GP practice at the development would “alleviate most if not all the restrictions and limitations of our current building” including a dedicated car park which would cater for traffic at peak times and increased accessibility for disabled residents.

Jonathan Millea of Millea Land commented:

“These plans are the result of listening to lots of feedback from the Council, residents and stakeholders and we believe that they offer massive benefits to the local area. 

“The new medical facility was almost universally welcomed during our previous plans and the new garden centre and foodstore will result in more jobs for local people and encourage residents to stay in the town to do their shopping.  This will result in shopping habits becoming more sustainable and encourage people use other local businesses, clawing back trade and retail expenditure which is currently lost to areas such as Scunthorpe, and with it delivering an even wider benefit to the town as a whole.”

A decision on the plans will be made by North Lincolnshire Council in the coming months.