A BID to create a bigger GP surgery in Heybridge is set to be given the green light tonight.

Maldon District Council’s central area planning committee is expected to approve plans to change the use of a number of units at Bentalls Shopping Centre on Colchester Road.

It would allow the health facilities in the centre to double in size to accommodate existing and future residents in the town.

The Heybridge branch of Longfields Medical Centre currently has a base at the shopping complex.

Officers at the council have recommended approval of the two change of use applications.

Nick Mann, of Bentalls Shopping Centre, said if the plans were agreed the improved GP surgery could be delivered early next year.

He said: “I have read the officers’ report and they are supporting it in principle. We are hoping to provide improved medical facilities in Heybridge which are desperately needed.

“I think this is the first step in trying to bring that about once we have got planning approval.

We need that to be able to start serious negotiations to ensure that is delivered.

“It will provide a quick solution. If we get support it can be delivered on a quick timescale as the building is already there.

“We would be able to deliver this by the beginning of next year – early 2017 – if all parties work together.

“It would be a very quick result for everyone.”

Mr Mann said the site would provide enough space for a surgery and there would be “potential”

to expand in the future.

He added: “The building is the right size for what is needed right now.

“There would be no empty space so you are not paying for unused areas.”

If approved the existing surgery will be rebuilt to provide new retail and food outlets on the ground floor with office space on the first floor.

The central area planning committee will meet to discuss the plans tonight.