BASILDON Council has re-submitted plans for a £2million health centre in Wickford.

The facility, in Market Road, will boast eight examination rooms and three treatment rooms.

It will also increase the number of available GPs in the area.

This project is being supported by Essex County Council, which has provided £500,000 of funding.

The new plans come after the original proposals were thrown out by Basildon Council's cross-party planning committee in April.

Upon completion, the existing London Road Surgery will move into the new health facility, enabling it to become a training practice to develop the next generation of doctors.

Richard Moore, Basildon Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Planning, said: “This is great news for Wickford and our residents.

“The new facility will provide vital public services and positively impact on the town’s wider regeneration improvements.

“We are committed to improving Wickford and the lives of our residents.

“This much needed facility will benefit local people raising their aspirations and expectations for better heath provision as well as being a major part of our successful investment and regeneration programme for Wickford.”

In addition to the consultation and examination rooms, the plans include treatment, interview and training rooms as well as modern reception and waiting areas.

The business case for the facility provides for one extra GP and will help the surgery meet the criteria for training practice status.

Dr Janki Persaud, a GP from London Road Surgery, said: "We are delighted with the project and its progression and are looking forward to developing our service in the new premises."

The Council would retain ownership of the new building and will receive a rental income from the two storey surgery which would bring a brown field site back into use.

Phil Turner, Leader of Basildon Council, said: “Wickford residents are proud of their town and of their high street and we are happy to support them by providing the massive investment needed to keep our community vibrant.

“Wickford's regeneration is a priority for the Council and the health facility is the latest continuation of improvements designed to meet the needs of our community.”

To make way for the scheme and help increase town centre footfall the market has been improved and moved to Market Lane and the new public square has been created on Wickford High Street.

The street scene and several shop fronts have also been improved and Wickford leisure centre has already benefitted from a £2.4m extension and revamp.