PLANS to develop a privately-run mini hospital in south Essex have been scrapped, an MP claims.
Billericay's Tory MP John Baron said the Government has confirmed there will be no health centre built on the Festival Leisure Park, Basildon. He said: "I have been told in writing by the Government no treatment centre for Basildon would go ahead against the wishes of the local NHS. Having recently met with South West Essex Primary Care Trust, who oppose the idea, this means the proposal has now effectively been killed off."
Mr Baron said the PCT might support a similar centre in Thurrock.
However, health minister Ben Bradshaw said: "Mr Baron is jumping to conclusions as no decisions have been made. This scheme is currently being reviewed to ensure it meets the needs of the local NHS and a decision will be made as soon as possible."
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