Dr Neil Hudson, Member of Parliament for Epping Forest, has welcomed the official opening of the new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at St Margaret’s Hospital in Epping, following his visit to the site for its launch ceremony.
The CDC, which opened its doors on 16 March 2026, has already supported more than 700 patients with vital diagnostic appointments, including CT scans, MRI scans and phlebotomy services. By expanding local access to tests and assessments, the centre is helping reduce waiting times and easing pressure on nearby hospitals.
The facility is designed around streamlined clinical pathways that enable patients to receive tests and specialist input more quickly. These pathways will support diagnosis and monitoring for a wide range of conditions, including breathlessness, asthma in children and young people, sleep disorders, upper gastrointestinal issues through trans‑nasal endoscopy, and urology diagnostics focused on prostate health.
Construction is now underway on Phase 2 of the project, which will extend the CDC to accommodate further diagnostic services. This next stage will include a fibroscanner for assessing liver inflammation, additional ultrasound and X‑ray capacity, and a dedicated space for trans‑nasal endoscopy procedures.
The CDC is part of a £2.3 billion national investment in diagnostic services initiated under the previous Conservative Government. Once fully operational, the centre will deliver faster, more convenient diagnostic testing for residents across Epping Forest and the wider area.
Dr Hudson has been a consistent supporter of the project, working to secure the current Government’s backing and ensure that this important investment for local patients progresses as planned.
Epping Forest MP, Dr Neil Hudson, said:
“Our new Community Diagnostic Centre is a major step forward for healthcare here in Epping Forest. By bringing more tests and assessments closer to home, this will reduce waiting times, ease pressure on our hospitals and GPs, and give patients quicker answers and better delivery of care.”
“I am delighted that this project initiated and committed to by the previous Conservative Government is now here, and that under concerted pressure from me, the new Government agreed to continue this much-needed Centre.”
“I will continue working to ensure Epping Forest folk benefit from high‑quality and accessible NHS services.”
