FRESH plans for a replacement GP surgery in Wickford will go to the vote at a meeting next week.

Proposals for a £2million surgery in Market Road are on the agenda for Tuesday’s Basildon Council planning committee meeting.

The cross-party committee voted against the two-storey building, which will replace the existing London Road Surgery, last April, despite planning officers recommending its approval.

Ukip and Labour councillors teamed up to refuse permission, citing concerns about parking and road safety. The vote sparked a row and accusations of party political motivation between ruling Tories and their rivals.

A report by planning officers has recommended the surgery plan is approved by councillors.

But the Conservatives do not command a majority of committee members, with only four out of ten councillors.

The committee also includes two Ukip, two Labour, one Green and one independent councillor.

The resubmitted application is identical to the one refused, which includes eight examination rooms and three treatment rooms.

Principal planning officer Stuart Spears said: “It has been identified that additional GPs are urgently needed within Wickford to bring services up to the standard expected by residents.

“The proposal would create a modern surgery facility in a sustainable and highly-accessible location within Wickford town centre.”