City’s new diagnostic centre opens, helping speed up patient care
In a major boost for local healthcare, Southend’s new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) has welcomed its first patients.
From X‑rays to ultrasounds and heart tests, it’s designed to cut hospital waits, make sure patients get the care they need sooner and will provide 30,000 appointments a year.
Located in the former Argos unit in the heart of Southend’s Victoria Shopping Centre, the state-of-the-art facility, operated by Thrive Health Hubs (THH), is in a place that’s easy to access and convenient for patients.
James Currell, Acting Divisional Director for Clinical and Support Services at the Trust, said: “Southend CDC opening to patients is a huge moment for the community. This centre will make it much easier for people to get the tests they need quickly and at a time and location that works for them.”
Bayo Alaba, MP for Southend East and Rochford, said: “It’s fantastic to see this new community diagnostic centre opening, giving local people quicker and more convenient access to the care they need. For too long. residents have faced long waits for diagnostic appointments. This centre will make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of people in Southend."
Michael Catling, Chief Operating Officer at THH, added: “We’re proud to be working with the NHS to bring high‑quality diagnostic services to the heart of Southend High Street. By offering rapid, local access to scans and tests, the centre will help ease pressure on hospitals and speed up care for patients.”
Cllr Maxine Sadza, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Healthier Communities, said: “This centre is a real benefit for residents, giving faster and easier access to tests so people can get the care they need sooner. Using space within The Victoria to host vital health services helps bring care closer to home and shows the strength of our partnership with the NHS to support healthier communities across our city.”
The Southend CDC is part of a national initiative to expand diagnostic capacity. Thurrock CDC opened in September, with further centres under construction in Braintree and Pitsea.