A "TRANSFORMATIONAL" mini hospital set to be created to relieve pressure on health services in south Essex will create around 50,000 appointments this year and up to 80 jobs initially, is scheduled to nopen its doors this summer in a former Debenhams store.

Thrive Health Hubs is behind the plans for the site in the Eastgate Centre in Basildon where a range of services are set to be available.

The first phase of Basildon Health Centre could be completed in Summer 2026. This will deliver core health services on the ground floor including: CT scanner, MRI scanner, X-ray , Ultrasound scan rooms, Echocardiography, Respiratory diagnostics, Outpatient department offering range of GP and specialist clinics and operating theatres and minor procedures.

New images have been released of how the hospital could look, including a reception area and treatment room. The firm, which specialises in private healthcare, says the plans are part of its "health on the high street" projects. It also claims it will "drive increased footfall in the town benefitting" local business.

The phase 1 health centre development will create over 50,000 appointments per annum in phase 1 increasing to 150,000 appointments per annum when the centre is fully developed. The health centre will create up to 350 new jobs in the town once fully developed incorporating 80 new jobs in the phase 1 development.

The former department store closed in 2021 and part of the site has become a FunParx indoor fun park with "something for everyone of all ages." It comes as the new Pitsea Community Diagnostic Centre in Northlands Pavement is expected to be open in spring 2027.

A spokesman added: "Thrive Health Hub Basildon will be available as a choice for GPs to make NHS referrals into a range of specialist services. This alternative referral route will offer patients choice of a new location that may be easier for them to access and have shorter waiting times. These will incorporate streamlined pathways and one-stop services.

"The design, fixtures and finishes for the development have been specified for a premium environment throughout with natural materials and high-quality furniture and fixtures. Attending hospital for an appointment, test or treatment can be a stressful experience for patients and our approach is intended to make all patients comfortable and at ease."