SUN, sea and dialysis could be the winning combination to boost tourism.

The architects and health trust behind plans for an 11-station renal unit in Clacton’s Kennedy Way say it could increase the number of visitors to the coast.

They say it will enable kidney dialysis patients to get treatment while they stay on holiday in the resort.

The application reads: “This type of facility is highly unusual and may have a positive impact on tourism on the area.”

Rosemary Macri, chief executive at the British Kidney Patient Association, said the unit would be a major draw for kidney dialysis patients.

She said: “I think it’s excellent news – anything that enables kidney patients to travel more and visit areas, such as Clacton, and have a nice holiday is to be welcomed.

“It is very difficult for kidney patients to arrange a holiday because most renal units are full to capacity.”

Peter Richardson, a spokesman for NHS North East Essex, confirmed: “We may be able to offer treatment to people who are visiting the area on holiday. It is quite possible that part of the service they are looking to offer may be for people coming up for a long weekend or a week.

“The numbers concerned are so small I am not quite sure it should be seen as bringing tourists flooding to the area. Primarily, it is to provide a service to local people.”

The plans to convert the ex-NHS office block will be decided by Tendring Council.