Work starts on south Essex community hospital

[TrueBlueTerrier]

http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/6604239 ... _hospital/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

PLANS to build a new community hospital in Grays are finally set to move forward, with a site for the facility now in public ownership.

The community hospital will be opened in Hogg Lane, Grays, to take pressure off Basildon Hospital.

The four-storey building will also house Royal Mail delivery offices and Territorial Army and Army cadet accommodation. The plans also include car parking for the hospital and Royal Mail staff and visitors.

Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation was granted powers to compulsorily purchase the land and has now done so.

Corporation spokesman Lawrence Luketa said: “Following a public inquiry in November last year, the Secretary of State has now confirmed the corporation can proceed with the order, which will allow completion of the site assembly.

“Work has already started on clearing part of the site, with the demolition of the former Territorial Army centre. However, demolition is only part of the process.”

The hospital is being build by NHS South West Essex, though at present the trust is unable to say when it is likely to open.

Trust deputy chief executive, Barbara Stuttle, said: “Community hospitals provide local care so patients don’t have to go to acute hospitals.

“Acute hospitals like the one at Basildon are designed to look after patients who are acutely ill.

“It will mean people in Thurrock will be able to get diagnostics, planned treatment, outpatient services or help with rehabilitation at the heart of their community and without the stress and inconvenience of going to an acute hospital, or travelling between different sites.

“Building the hospital is a big investment at a time when there are significant financial pressures for the NHS across the country, but it’s one to which our board is committed.”