MALDON residents visiting A&E this winter will find more room for social distancing after a £4.8million emergency grant to make more space.

The government cash is to be shared between Broomfield Hospital and Basildon in a bid to create a larger area for patients in the emergency departments.

The money will also go towards a more general upgrade of the facilities in preparation for the colder months ahead - and the expected increase in people needing hospital care.

A spokesperson for the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust said: "This will allow us to create additional space and make better use of our facilities for patients at our Broomfield and Basildon sites, with funding for Southend yet to be announced.

"The works will allow us to achieve appropriate social distancing in the departments, keeping our patients and staff safe as we approach the busier winter period."

The current A&E waiting area at Broomfield, in Chelmsford, accessed by a first-floor car park entrance, is notable for its small size in comparison to the high ceilings and spacious feel of the modern, main hospital reception.