Residents in Walton and the whole PE4 area will soon benefit from improved pharmacy services thanks to the work of Cllr Alex Rafiq, who helped ensure the former community centre site on Hallfields Lane could be used for an expansion.
Originally, Peterborough City Council had placed the property into auction, but Cllr Rafiq listened to concerns from local residents and worked closely with the council to push for a different solution. He successfully made the case that the building should instead be sold directly to the neighbouring pharmacy, allowing them to expand their facilities and services for the local community.
By intervening, Cllr Rafiq ensured that the sale was pulled from auction and that the site will now continue to serve residents in a positive and practical way. The decision means that instead of losing the building to an uncertain future, it will now be used to provide accessible healthcare, benefiting families and older residents in particular.
Cllr Rafiq said he was delighted with the outcome: “This is a win for the people of Walton. Residents told me they wanted better access to pharmacy services, and by working together we’ve made sure this building continues to serve the local community.”
This outcome is a great example of how listening to residents, taking concerns to the council, and working constructively can deliver results. A job well done for Walton.