NHS chiefs to delay decision on closing St Peter's Hospital by six months for more local engagement

St Peter's Hospital in Maldon
-Credit: (Image: EssexLive)


NHS chiefs have agreed to delay making a final decision on the future of St Peter's in Maldon. It comes amid uncertainty over local healthcare for the Essex town after a community consultation.

The decision-making is regarding the reconfiguration of community hospital beds, a midwife-led birthing unit and ambulatory services. Local residents and politicians have expressed concerns over plans to close the hospital and transfer services elsewhere.

Mid and South Essex NHS say the delay aims to allow further engagement to ensure the final decision is fully informed and aligns with the needs of the local population. To ensure that the final decision reflects a broad range of perspectives, an independently chaired working group will be established to support looking at viable options in detail, including the long-term future of services provided at St Peter’s Hospital in Maldon.

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Tom Abell, Chief Executive Officer of Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board, said; “Since I have come into post last month, I’ve been reviewing some of the decisions in train. While much work has been done, including significant input from our local communities, it is clear to me that more time is needed to thoroughly explore and evaluate the suggestions provided by the public and stakeholders.

"This additional time will enable us to work with partners and local communities to develop comprehensive solutions that best meets the needs of our communities and makes the best use of taxpayers money."

The working group will include representatives from the NHS, local authorities, community organisations, and key stakeholders. They will focus on reviewing feedback, engaging with the community and stakeholders and providing recommendations for consideration.

A decision-making board meeting was planned for September 30 but has since been postponed for the working group to complete its review. The delay means there will be no immediate changes to the existing provision of community hospital beds, midwife-led birthing or ambulatory care services.

All current services will continue as they are while the engagement process is ongoing. The working group will begin in the coming weeks.