A PLANNING application has been submitted to build a new £6million health complex in Ongar.

Under the proposals, the three-storey Ongar War Memorial Medical Centre, on the site of the old hospital in Fyfield Road, will house two doctor's surgeries, a dentist and a range of clinics.

Leigh Fleming, director of corporate services with NHS West Essex, said: "The submission of the planning application is the latest key stage in the process to provide improved healthcare facilities for the people of Ongar and the surrounding villages.

“These are exciting proposals and we remain on schedule for the new medical centre to be open by Christmas 2011."

The plans - which include a grass roof for the modern building and a war memorial - have been drawn up by Murphy Philipps Architects.

Architect James Philipps said: "We have endeavoured to create a landmark building for the residents of Ongar, capable of highlighting the civil and social significance of the proposal as both a health facility and a monument within the local area."

The planning application is expected to go before a planning committee of Epping Forest District Council in March.

What do you think of the plans? Contact reporter Daniel Binns with your views on 0779 547 6625 or via email at: dbinns@london.newsquest.co.uk