A deal has been agreed between Galliard DVS, the new owners of the Eastgate Shopping Centre, and Basildon Health Centre Ltd to acquire the old Debenhams building. Basildon Health Centre Ltd is backed by the healthcare development team at Fenton Whelan, who will lead on transforming the old Debenhams store into a much-needed state-of-the-art healthcare facility for the local community.
Basildon Health Centre will be equipped with comprehensive diagnostic capabilities such as MRI, CT, X-ray, and Ultrasound. Additionally, the facility will have dedicated treatment rooms for endoscopy procedures, operating theatres, overnight hospital bedrooms for patient stays, and a range of outpatient services like ophthalmology, orthopaedics and physiotherapy amenities. Future plans involve incorporating step up/down care beds, a pharmacy, and optometry/eyecare services.
The facility will operate with extended hours and completely revitalise Eastgate Shopping Centre by drawing significant footfall to the Town and reinforce the commitment from Galliard DVS to collaborate closely with Eastgate Shopping Centre’s current tenants and Basildon Council, to preserve Eastgate as a vibrant and thriving hub for Basildon Town Centre.
The Galliard DVS Joint Venture successfully completed the purchase of the Eastgate Shopping Centre in Basildon, Essex in March 2023. This significant 9.9-acre site features a shopping centre, multistorey car park and office buildings spanning over 545,000 sq. ft. The Galliard DVS Joint Venture plan is to reposition the town centre. The plans will include in part, the delivery of retail, leisure and community facilities in the heart of Basildon Town Centre.
Basildon, known as the economic powerhouse of Essex, recently unveiled its new vision for the town centre, which plays a vital role in maintaining Basildon's status as the fastest-growing economy in Essex. Basildon Borough Council’s plan will create a vibrant and dynamic hub that brings together diverse communities and fosters growth and community development. Today’s announcement will further support these plans in revitalising Basildon Town Centre.
Basildon is home to renowned manufacturers, such as Case New Holland, Ford, and Leonardo. The town boasts a thriving ecosystem of successful small businesses and start-ups, reflecting its history of aspiration and entrepreneurial spirit.
Basildon boasts unparalleled advantages, including its exceptional accessibility to London, nearby picturesque countryside, international air access via nearby Southend and proximity to coastal villages. Significant investments in culture and creativity are being made through initiatives such as Creative Basildon, the Towngate Theatre, and the flagship Empire Cinema development, aimed at boosting Basildon's night-time economy. In addition, plans are also underway to stimulate creative workspace, providing an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship.
Cllr Andrew Baggott, Leader of Basildon Borough Council says “This is a fantastic proposal for Basildon Borough on many levels. It continues the work being undertaken to improve health outcomes, while at the same time will increase footfall - both to the Borough, and the Town Centre - with all the opportunities that brings.
Basildon residents were consulted and listened to regarding the town centre's future, and this is just one of many steps to realise their (and our) vision for the town centre while providing much-needed health facilities”
Councillor Jeff Henry, Basildon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing, Leisure, Arts and Culture said: “I am very pleased to hear that this facility will be established right in the heart of our town centre. It will provide new ophthalmic services, which are badly needed in the county, in addition to bringing jobs and driving footfall into the town centre. I am very excited about the proposals and look forward to working with the consortium to deliver this new facility.”
Nagendra Kumar, Director at Basildon Health Centre Ltd, says, “As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the NHS, we are really excited about this project which brings Health on the High Street and compliments the local NHS health provision agenda for the residents of Mid and South Essex. The facility will not only provide access to a state-of-the-art modern healthcare facility for residents but will also encourage sustainable growth at the Eastgate Shopping centre, making Basildon town a more vibrant place to live and work.
Simon Welch, Director of Land at Galliard Homes says; “We are delighted and excited to have made our first investment in Basildon. The town has always been a region very much on our radar due to its forward-thinking Council and the superb workforce the region boasts. Eastgate Shopping Centre is a key part of the town centre and as such holds many opportunities for local and national retail operators along with significant potential to create new community opportunities and drive economic growth. We eagerly anticipate working with stakeholders to realise our vision for a prosperous and sustainable Eastgate shopping centre.”
