THE new entrance of Basildon and Thurrock Hospital was officially opened today (Wednesday, 9 November) by the Mayor of Basildon and Deputy Mayor of Thurrock.

Cllr Luke Mackenzie and Cllr Sue Little cut a ribbon to herald the opening of the £7.6 million building.

They were joined by Hannah Coffey, the acting chief executive of Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, chair of the Trust Nigel Beverley and 'Percy Pig' for the cutting ceremony.

The new area includes a Costa Coffee, M&S Food, fashion retailer StockShop and WHSmith, with an onsite Post Office.

It also offers a new bereavement and patient advice and liaison service suite, a refurbished multi-faith room, new admin space and a welcoming hub for Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity.

Also attending and speaking ahead of the opening was Mark Hastings, chief executive of the building's specialist developer Noviniti.