MPS Sir John Whittingdale and Dame Priti Patel are calling for an independent examination of plans over the future of St Peter’s Hospital in Maldon.

The Maldon and Witham politicians met with Andrew Stephenson, Minister for Health and Secondary Care, and Helen Whately, Minister for Social Care, at the Department of Health, to demand current services are maintained and improved.

They also raised doubts over the consultation process by the Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB).

They called for an independent examiner to assess the best route forward for a new community hospital, considering the expanding population of Maldon District.

The MPs want Ministers to take the decision away from the ICB.

Ministers agreed to review the ICB's conclusions and ensure the future health needs of Maldon residents are met before any final decisions are made.

Sir John said: "I have received a huge number of responses from constituents to my local survey which make clear their opposition to the proposals put forward by the ICB and their lack of confidence in the consultation process.

"I am grateful to the Ministers for their assurance that they will listen to these concerns and will look carefully at any final proposals before they are agreed."

Dame Priti, whose Witham constituency covers a large part of the Maldon district, said: "St Peter’s is a much loved and vital community facility.

"We have seen significant growth and development in the Maldon district, and it is important that with new housing we protect, invest and enhance local services rather than see them removed."