Developers have revealed plans to build a 'branch surgery', run by Maldon's two main medical centres, as part of the ongoing Westcombe Park development in Heybridge.

Longfield Medical Centre and Blackwater Medical Centre, both located in Princes Road, Maldon, are run by NHS Mid and South Essex.

A spokesperson for the organisation, formerly known as 'NHS Mid Essex Clinical Commissioning Group', told Nub News: "We are working with Countryside Zest on premises where GP-led services can be delivered within the Westcombe Park development.

"The building would serve as a branch surgery for both Longfield Medical Centre and Blackwater Medical Centre.

"Heybridge and future Westcombe Park residents need NHS facilities that are fit for the future, where they can receive appropriate GP-led care.

"Discussions with Countryside Zest and the two practices to make that happen are at an early stage but already underway."

The organisation said it would not make any further comment 'at this time'.

However, it did not mention how the branch surgery would be staffed, considering ongoing staff shortages faced by the NHS.

A spokesperson for Countryside Properties told Nub News: "Countryside is in advanced discussions with the NHS, regarding the delivery of the healthcare facility within the new local centre at Westcombe Park.

"In addition to the new medical practice, the planning permission secured a payment of around £430,000 towards funding improvements to healthcare."

Last week, Countryside announced it would deliver a 'serviced site' at Westcombe Park, for the construction of a primary school and pre-school in Heybridge.

Updates to follow.