A ‘turf turning’ ceremony took place today, 8 September, at two sites in
Westcliff-on Sea which are both set to be transformed into new primary
care centres offering a range of new healthcare services to people
living in Westcliff and Southend.
The ceremonies, held by NHS South East Essex, mark the beginning of
construction of the exciting developments in North Road and Valkyrie
Road set to include a range of services including GPs, a pharmacy,
blood taking and community nursing services. It is also hoped that the
centres will become a community hub that can be used by local groups and
residents. The centres are due to open in the spring of 2013.
Katherine Kirk, Chairman for NHS South East Essex who was present at the
turf turning event said:
“Today is very important landmark. Everyone who has been involved in the
projects has been working with one goal in mind: to provide residents of
both Westcliff and Southend with a more efficient, effective health
service. Now that building work is underway, that day is getting nearer.
Local residents will soon benefit from new fit for purpose buildings which
offer a greater range of health services under one roof.”
Dr Rupert Halliday, GP at Valkyrie Road Surgery said “I would like to
share how delighted we are that building work has now begun. By offering
a wide range of healthcare services closer to patients’ homes we will be
able to transform healthcare provision in the area and ensure the health
needs of local residents are met.”
Both primary care centres will be delivered through South East Essex
LIFT Ltd who will own the buildings and lease them to the PCT.
There has been extensive engagement with patients, staff, GP
Commissioning Consortia and GPs throughout the process. This will
continue during the development of the two centres.
