The number of patients being treated at Runwell mental hospital could nearly triple if plans to massively redevelop the site go ahead.

More than 50 beds for medium security patients are included in the scheme - but project leaders insist the public will not be at risk.

Health trust bosses want to demolish the existing units and replace them with a purpose-built facility which would cater for up to 76 patients - at the moment the hospital has only 28 beds.

However, they also point out that the extra beds will only provide for short-term needs and there will be a demand to extend the unit in the future.

Outline plans have been lodged with Chelmsford Borough Council and are due to be discussed by planning committee members next Monday.

Planning officers are recommending the scheme be approved.

The plans have been drawn up by South Essex Mental Health and Community Care NHS Trust after a comprehensive review of health care needs.

The scheme, which includes a medical library, conference facilities and car parking, is one of two submitted by the trust for the ambitious redevelopment of the hospital site which was built in 1937.

A formal request for outline consent has also been lodged for 492 homes, shops, a primary school and recreation facilities with access roads and public open spaces.

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