NHS Redbridge has been shortlisted in a national competition for its controversial Loxford Polyclinic - giving the green light for a similar centre serving Wanstead and Woodford.

The trust has made the final eight in the category ‘Improving Patient Access’ at the Health Journal Awards.

The apparent success of the Loxford project would seem to pave the way for four more similar centres – including one to serve the west of the borough located in South Woodford.

But patient groups have fiercely criticised the principle of polyclinics citing the deterioration of traditional GP-patient links as a negative aspect.

A spokesman for the trust said: “The submission reflects NHS Redbridge’s commitment to ensuring patients have better access to a wider range of services closer to home.

“The organisation now goes on to make a formal presentation before a panel of judges in September.

“The winner will be announced at an award ceremony in central London later in the year.”

Visit redbridge.nhs.uk for more information.