PROPOSALS for a new Community Diagnostic Centre in Pitsea have been given the go-ahead at a meeting of Basildon Council's Planning Committee

The Place in Pitsea, a multi-purpose facility housing Pitsea Library and activity space run by Basildon Council, will be demolished to make way for the new Community Diagnostic Centre. 

Subject to approval by Basildon's Cabinet the new centre will be developed by Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, with the aim of reducing waiting times for scanning and imaging facilities. The centre will also be home to a redesigned Pitsea Library and new activity spaces used by Basildon Council. 

In the report presented to councillors at the Planning Committee, officers also highlighted the proposed improvements to the public realm and projected boost to the local economy. The new building will enhance the appearance of the site and the new facilities will increase footfall into Pitsea - supporting local retail activity and reinvigorating the town centre. 

Cllr Jeff Henry, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing, Leisure, Arts and Culture, said: "This new community diagnostic centre will bring a wealth of benefits to people in Pitsea. Faster diagnosis will reduce waiting times and ease uncertainty for local patients. The centre itself will bring increased footfall to the town centre and a much-needed boost to the local economy. 

"I am so pleased this exciting project has taken this important step and I look forward to proposing these recommendations to the Cabinet." 

Matthew Hopkins, Chief Executive of Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust said: "We are delighted that the planning permission has been granted for the Community Diagnostic Centre in Pitsea. The new centre will provide much needed additional capacity, which means the patients will be seen more quickly and have access to tests and scans, including Endoscopy, CT, and MRI closer to home." 

With planning permission now granted, final approval on the scheme will be presented to the Cabinet and the council will work with Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust to confirm a construction schedule. Existing facilities within The Place will be relocated during the works.