MP's discuss St Peter's Hospital 'concerns'
MP John Whittingdale and MP Dame Priti Patel called for ministerial intervention to ensure the delivery of a new community hospital.
MPs Sir John Whittingdale and Dame Priti Patel met with Minister for Health and Secondary Care Andrew Stephenson and Minister for Social Care Helen Whately at the Department of Health to discuss the future of St Peter’s Hospital in Maldon.
The meeting followed recent parliamentary debates on healthcare in Essex and specifically on the status of St Peter’s.
During the meeting, Sir John and Dame Priti outlined the longstanding history of St Peter’s Hospital and emphasized the necessity of maintaining and enhancing local healthcare services, given the district's geographic size and growing population.
They expressed scepticism regarding the ongoing consultation process led by the Mid and South Essex ICB and called for ministerial intervention to ensure the delivery of a new community hospital.
Both Ministers committed to carefully considering the ICB's conclusions and ensuring that the Department satisfies the future healthcare needs of Maldon District residents.
In response, Sir John Whittingdale stated, "I have received a huge number of responses from constituents... their opposition to the proposals... and their lack of confidence in the consultation process." But put on record that he appreciated the Ministers' assurance to address these concerns.
Dame Priti Patel echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of protecting and enhancing local services amidst significant growth in the Maldon district. She stressed the necessity of a new community hospital to consolidate and improve services for local communities.