The construction of a multi-million-pound healthcare facility is “progressing well”, despite delays.

Part of the new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at Sheppey Community Hospital, in Minster, is set to open before the end of the year.

The improvements were announced in October last year as part of a wider national scheme, costing £350 million.

While the full amount going to the site has not been revealed, the funding runs into millions of pounds.

The CDC will be available up to seven days a week and up to 12 hours a day, according to demand.

Cllr Peter MacDonald (Swale Independents), who represents Minster on Swale council, previously told KentOnline he hoped it would be the start of a “new era”.

He said: “I'm very pleased and reassured that a new diagnostic system will be put in place at Sheppey Hospital.

“Travel from Sheppey is difficult for people who are well and doubly difficult for those who are unwell and local GPs are overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of patients.”

Since then, construction has been taking place and in the hospital’s courtyard, workers are preparing the site by digging out footings.

A new sign says: “We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused by the ongoing works.

“We are building a Community Diagnostic Centre, which will contain an MRI scanner, CT scanner, ultrasound and lung function clinic – which will mean that we will be able to provide additional and well-needed services to the Island.”

Commenting on social media, people were happy the development had started.

One person said: “Yay, I saw all this going on yesterday, what great news.”

Another commented: “Good news for the people of Sheppey as trying to get to Medway Hospital is difficult with lack of transport on the Island.”

Medway NHS Foundation Trust says work on the CDC is “progressing well”.

The facility was originally expected to open in two phases in early 2024 and to be fully operational in 2025.

However it is slightly behind schedule, with the centre along with a CT scanner now set to launch before the end of the year.

A trust spokesman said it depended on the completion of building work, installation of equipment and staff training.

It is still aiming for the CDC to become completely functional by 2025 and is set to introduce the MRI service then as well.