Braintree District Council has completed the process to transfer a plot of land in Sible Hedingham to OneMedical Property, a leading developer of healthcare properties.

The move will pave the way for the construction of a state-of-the-art medical centre designed to meet the healthcare needs of the local community in the future.

With planning permission and necessary approvals already secured, OneMedical Property is set to proceed with the development of a modern, purpose-built facility that will replace the three GP surgery sites currently run by the Hedingham Medical Centre.

While OneMedical Property will own and manage the new building, primary care health services will continue to be provided by Hedingham Medical Centre.

The new facility, which will be just under 1,000sq m in size, will feature 11 clinical rooms, a spacious waiting area, reception, dispensary, utility and storage spaces, as well as dedicated staff rooms and office space.

And the building will incorporate the latest in healthcare design principles to ensure a welcoming and functional environment for patients and staff.

This centre is part of a collaborative effort between OneMedical Property, Hedingham Medical Centre, NHS Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board, Braintree District Council, and local residents and community groups.

Together, they have worked to design a building that not only meets the current needs of the community, but is also adaptable for future growth.

The facility will serve approximately 12,000 patients from Sible and Castle Hedingham, Great Yeldham, and surrounding villages.

The practice currently cares for around 9,000 patients and the new facility will accommodate the anticipated growth of the local population.

It will also support the practice’s commitment to offering increased access to healthcare services, including extended operational hours and the use of new technologies to provide virtual consultations for patients unable to visit in person.

A key feature of the design is a focus on sustainability and accessibility.

The building is expected to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ suustainability rating and will feature biophilic design elements, sound-absorbing materials, and abundant natural light, creating a healthier and more-pleasant environment for patients, visitors, and staff.

It will also be built with pandemic-proof features such as multiple entrance points, glazed reception screens, and spaces designed to support social distancing.

With the land deal now finalised, OneMedical Property will soon be entering into the final stages of the construction tender process.

Following the award of the contract, work will begin on preparing the site, with construction set to follow shortly after.

Rachel Beverley-Stevenson, chief executive of OneMedical Property, said: “The development of the new facility represents a significant investment in the community’s future healthcare needs and underscores OneMedical Property’s commitment to supporting the delivery of essential local services.

“We look forward to working closely with Braintree District Council and the Integrated Care Board to deliver this new state-of-the-art medical facility that will benefit patients and the local community in the years ahead.”

Councillor Kevin Bowers, cabinet member for finance, resources and performance at Braintree District Council, added: “We’re pleased to have played our part in supporting the delivery of this important facility and look forward to OneMedical Property and the Integrated Care Board taking it forward to completion.

“We know how important good healthcare facilities and services are to residents and the delivery of a centre which meets modern standards will benefit patients and the local community for many years to come.”