Work begins on £8.5m expansion of emergency unit

It is hoped the work at Southend Hospital will improve patient flow throughout the building

Work has started on an £8.5m expansion of Southend Hospital's emergency department.

It is hoped the development will improve the flow of patients throughout the facility in south Essex.

Treatment areas, waiting rooms and resuscitation areas will be redesigned as part of the project, the hospital said.

Matthew Hopkins, chief executive of the hospital trust, told BBC Essex the work is due to be completed by summer 2025.

Improvements outlined in the project include a dedicated paediatrics area, linked to the existing children's ward.

A steel frame extension has been put in place as the development continues

A better flow through the building will allow those arriving at the emergency department (ED) to receive urgent care more quickly, the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust said.

The scheme will be funded by the Department of Health and Social Care.

"For many, ED is their front door experience of the hospital, so it’s fantastic to see construction starting," Mr Hopkins said.

"We know what a difference an improved ED will make to our population and our staff.

"We’re not just improving things for now, but this work means we can futureproof the department for years to come."

Matthew Hopkins has been in post in Essex since 2022

The next phase of the development will include the installation of additional beds at the hospital.

Mr Hopkins added that the emergency department remained open as work continued.