It will be ‘the largest of its kind in the region’
CGI plans of the development(Image: Essex Live)
Construction is now well underway for a new health centre, in Essex, which will be “the largest of its kind in the region.” Bricks will soon be going up on the Pitsea Community Diagnostic Centre at Northlands Pavement, Pitsea, which is due to open in spring 2027.
It will also include space for community groups and a new library. NHS bosses say it will “deliver faster diagnoses, earlier detection, and better health outcomes” for thousands of local people.
It is replacing the former The Place leisure and activity centre at the site which closed in May last year. Groups and services at the centre were relocated to various locations across the borough including Wat Tyler Park in Pitsea.
Residents are “delighted” to see the progress and investment in the area. Shona Williams, 33, said: “I think it’s excellent to see big investment in health care like this. This will help so many people across Basildon and the wider area. Great to see the space for community groups and the new library too. It means we have not lost what the site used to have before this project started. We have been needing something like this for some time here.
“I think it shows the authorities, including councils and NHS are listening to what we want and need. It feels rare to see this sort of investment in our area. It will also reassure people when it comes to getting medical treatment, help and support.”
The new centre will offer an eight-room endoscopy unit and “state-of-the-art” CT and MRI scanning facilities. It will also bring back the space for older people’s activity groups and community groups. It is facing delays after it was set to be completed in October 2026. The new health centre is expected to serve over 250,000 people each year, with NHS bosses hoping to reduce waiting times and improve access to healthcare.
James Currell, acting divisional director for clinical and support services at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The Pitsea Community Diagnostic Centre will provide around 120,000 additional scans and appointments each year, making it easier for people to access vital tests, reduce waiting times, speed up results and support faster treatment. This centre marks an important step in bringing care closer to home. We’re already seeing the benefits of our Thurrock centre, and we look forward to delivering the same positive impact in Pitsea.”