The scheme is part of a £38m DHSC investment in services run by United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust (ULHT).

Julie Frake-Harris, chief operating officer at ULHT, said: 'The start of groundworks on the Skegness and Lincoln sites is a significant and exciting step forward in the delivery this programme for our patients.

'Working in collaboration with NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board, we have involved patients and clinical teams at every stage of development to ensure we are creating an environment that is welcoming, modern and fit for purpose for the broad range of patient groups who will be able to use it.

'The convenience of these facilities is supported by free on-site parking, and having diagnostic testing in the community not only helps to reduce waiting times, it also frees up capacity in our busy hospitals to support those in need of emergency care.'

The centres in Skegness and Lincoln will offer a variety of diagnostic services, including X-ray, MRI, CT and non-obstetric ultrasound.

Clair Raybould, executive director for system delivery, NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board, said: 'The CDC programme is offering opportunity to explore how health and care organisations can develop and deliver services differently to address some of the unique challenges faced within our local communities, from a population and geographical perspective.

'As well as offering vital diagnostic testing, Lincolnshire's CDCs have been designed to allow clinical space for other services, enabling the facility to develop further as a community hub.'