LOCAL dignitaries have been given a first look inside the new Pitsea Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC).

During the visit, James McMurdock, South Basildon and East Thurrock MP, praised the progress and the ambition behind the project.

He said: "Standing on site, you can really appreciate the scale of what's being built. This centre will transform access to vital tests and checks for local people, and it's encouraging to see such strong collaboration driving it forward."

With nearly 160 modular units having now been installed, the full size of the 5,500 square metre building is visible and the project is a step closer to delivering Essex's largest diagnostic and wellbeing centre.

The visit offered local government representatives a detailed look at the next phase of construction, which includes brickwork, ground preparation and flooring.

Due to open in summer 2027, the centre will provide residents with quicker access to essential diagnostic tests, including MRI, CT, ultrasound, x-ray, endoscopy, cardiology and respiratory and blood tests, delivering 120,000 additional appointments every year.

Reflecting on the impact the centre will have, James Currell, Operational Delivery Director at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We know there is still a lot of hard work to do, but it is fantastic to begin to see this exciting project take real shape. Once complete it will see more patients, support earlier diagnosis and decrease diagnostic waiting times for our community."

The Pitsea CDC will also house a new wellbeing hub, which includes an activity centre, modern library and community spaces. Representatives from Essex County Council highlighted the value of this dual purpose.

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Cllr Terri Sargent, Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing at Basildon Council, said: "It was fantastic to see and hear the progress being made on the new Community Diagnostic Centre. This investment will make it easier for local people to access vital diagnostic tests closer to home, helping to improve health outcomes and reduce waiting times. We look forward to seeing the centre open and the positive difference it will make for residents across Basildon and the wider area."

Pitsea CDC is one of four new diagnostic centres being developed across mid and south Essex. Centres in Thurrock and Southend are already open, with Braintree CDC expected to open to patients later this year.