HOPES for a new medical centre in Bewdley could finally get off the ground after eight years of talks, with plans being backed by town councillors .

Despite concerns about the “huge” scale of the building, lack of parking spaces and the effect it could have on trade, members unanimously backed the proposals during a town council meeting last Monday.

There were mixed responses to the plans but councillors were warned any further delays to the project could lead to NHS England withdrawing its funding.

But resident Martin Guard urged the council to reconsider the proposals, adding it would damage the town.

“The new building is more than three times larger than the existing one ,” he said.

If given the go-ahead, the new centre would be built on part of the town ’s Dog Lane car park, taking up about 100 parking spaces .

A new car park with 45 spaces would be built on the centre’ s existing site in Load Street.

Mr Black said developers had “overcome” parking issues and would create 21 extra spaces in the town once the build was complete .

Chris Griffin, vice-chairman of Bewdley Civic Society said the group would be withdrawing its previous objections to the proposals in light of the parking solution.

He added the proposals had “split the town” due to concerns about the size and location of the building but councillors said they had received few objections .

Conservative Jan Adams , a retired GP , added: “The current medical centre is not fit for purpose" .

If we don ’t go ahead with this Bewdley will lose out in ter ms of medical facilities .”

The plans will no w go before Wy re Fo rest District Council planners , wh o will mak e a deci- sion during a special meeting next month.