Trust pauses hospital closure plan after backlash

Controversial plans to close a 150-year-old community hospital have been paused over wide backlash from patients.

Birthing and stroke rehabilitation services at St Peter's Hospital in Maldon, Essex, were to be relocated elsewhere in Essex under the scheme.

However, the Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust announced on Wednesday that a final decision would be delayed for six months.

"It is clear to me that more time is needed to thoroughly explore and evaluate the suggestions provided by the public and stakeholders," said integrated care board chief executive Tom Abell.

The hospital trust said an independent group would consult on the plans until March, before presenting its recommendations.

Campaigners had raised concerns about the proposal since it was first suggested in August 2023, including stripping naked for an online video.

The delay meant there would be no immediate changes to the 16-bed stroke and rehabilitation unit, nor the midwifery-led birthing department, the trust said.

Mr Abell added that "significant input" had been taken onboard from the community.

"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," he said.

Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.