BUILDING work on two multi-million pound primary care centres in Westcliff will begin this summer.

The new health centres in North Road and Valkyrie Road, will cost £15.9million and are due to open at the start of 2013.

They were given the final seal of approval at a board of directors meeting.

A total of six GP practices will have a surgery at the new centres.

These are: Dr Chisnell and Partners in Valkyrie Road Dr Davies and Partners in West Road Dr Cordess in West Road Dr George in Boston Avenue Dr Kumar in Boston Avenue Dr Gul in Westborough Road.

However, with primary care trusts being scrapped, the future ownership and management of the centres is uncertain because of Government discussions on NHS reform.

Dr Wendy Cordess, of West Road surgery, said: “Our patients and staff have been committed to finding better accommodation for sometime now.

“We are pleased and excited about the new primary care centre. We look forward to making it a huge success for patients and staff alike.”

The estimated cost of the Valkyrie Road centre is £8.1million, while the North Road centre will cost £7.8million. More than 40,000 people are set to benefit from the developments.

Each of the new centres will include GP services, a pharmacy, blood taking and community nursing services.

Local GPs have supported the plans, with many being involved throughout the design process.

Margaret Hathaway, associate director of commercial services for the trust, said it was a difficult decision to make.

She said: “The tough financial situation and the uncertainty about the future of the NHS made this a difficult decision.

“But the board recognised this area remained its highest priority and the development of new health care facilities was essential to tackle the health inequalities and deprivation.”

Previous plans were drawn up for both centres in October 2009, but none were submitted to Southend Council because of concerns about funding.

She added: “I am delighted this final hurdle has been achieved.

“We can now continue with our plans, as it is vital healthcare buildings continue to improve to be able to ensure that a range of high quality, modern services are delivered in the community.”