A NEW £2million state-of-the-art GP surgery has been officially opened.

The centre, based in Market Road, Wickford, will replace the London Road surgery and provide modern premises for the town’s growing population.

David Harrison, Basildon’s mayor, was watched by representatives from the NHS and Essex County Council as he cut the ribbon.

He said: “The new surgery is here because of Basildon Council having a good working relationship with the NHS. A relationship that I hope will continue and prosper.

“As Basildon Council undertook the role of a developer, we will receive a commercial rent that will support the council’s finances.

“The provision of health care is a key priority not only in Wickford, but across the borough. When I look around and see the eight consulting rooms, the three treatment rooms - I see the future for other practices.”

The project, which began in July 2016, was led by Basildon Council, with £500,000 of funding support from Essex County Council.

The new facility includes eight examination rooms and three treatment rooms. The new building is fully accessible to people with mobility problems. Additional treatment rooms include a dedicated area to perform minor operations.

Dr Paul Richards, from the London Road Surgery, said: “The London Road Surgery has enjoyed working out of its current building. It had a lovely, friendly feel and has served us and patients well in a beautiful converted house.

“However, the surgery has outgrown the space and we are looking forward to moving into larger, purpose-built premises and look ahead to attracting new GPs and patients to help serve the health needs of the local community.”

The new site, on the former Wickford Market, is within walking distance of the old premises and there will be parking spaces allocated for people with disabilities. It is expected to be open to new patients by the end of the month.

Kevin Bentley, deputy leader of Essex County Council with responsibility for infrastructure, said: “The opening of this impressive new health facility signifies yet more regeneration taking place in our county, and we are delighted to help fund it.”