A new £1.2 million chemotherapy treatment centre for mid Essex patients is set to be opened at Broomfield Hospital in May.

The state-of-the-art centre will allow more cancer patients to be seen in a welcoming environment, while still keeping them safely distanced.

The treatment area is bigger than the existing one, increasing the number of chemotherapy stations in its day unit from 14 to 18 chairs, plus two beds.

As well as much-needed additional patient space it will also include an outpatient consultation suite with two consultation exam rooms and two interview rooms.

Lisa Villiers, Macmillan Nurse Consultant of Chemotherapy at Broomfield, said: "We've really listened to patient feedback and they've told us that they would like a light and calming environment, a spacious waiting area and car parking next to the unit. It's a really positive move and will create a more suitable environment to meet patient needs.

"It will give us more space to treat patients and help cut the waiting time for patients to start chemotherapy."

There will also be a staff changing area, staff rest areas, toilets and staff offices. The new centre will have its own chemotherapy preparation pharmacy room and a member of the pharmacy team based within the development.