A new health centre for an area deficient in health facilities is one step closer.

Figures from NHS England in June showed Maldon district has a 1,849:1 patient to GP ratio, far higher than neighbouring Chelmsford at 1,331:1 and Braintree at 1,653:1.

The organisation said the public were concerned about access to care, especially out of hours and the rural dispension of services.

At the Maldon District locality board meeting on December 8, a business case for new health facilities as part of the North Heybridge Garden Suburb, was reported by NHS England.

Miriam Lewis, councillor for Heybridge West Ward, said the increased infrastructure was desperately needed.