The Design and Build contract with Baxall Construction to build the combined Mayfield Community and Health Centre has been terminated at the end of the ‘Design’ element as we are not moving forward with them to the construction phase.

A new construction company has been commissioned to review the current design and determine what changes may be necessary to reduce the project cost. However, this is at no fee to us and a new overall price is anticipated to be available on 13^th October 2025. 

This company has already produced some preliminary design changes which are thought likely to bring about major reductions. We, and our partner Wealden District Council (WDC), are also involved in all meetings, which are focussed on the requirements alongside cost savings, and which have included experts in different fields of construction.  Hence we have complete visibility regarding the way forward. This is a well-established company with many similar projects under their belt. For example, they are currently building a new sports centre in Hailsham for WDC, which is making good progress and so far positive reports have been received.

Additionally, a new firm has been appointed as employers’ agent also providing quantity surveyor services, and they are already completely embedded in the current process.

Both new companies are working in a very constructive manner with a view to developing an affordable solution.

Moreover, over the last couple of months, WDC has re-affirmed their total commitment to the project and have stated that they will do whatever they reasonably can to make it happen. This, combined with our ongoing commitment to the project, means that we are all hopeful of a successful outcome.

As mentioned, the key date is mid-October when hopefully we will know that we have a design that is viable.

This being the case, WDC is planning to seek the necessary approvals from their cabinet meeting in November and the PC will be doing the same at its November 2025 meeting.