CONTROVERSIAL plans to shut a historic hospital site in Maldon have been delayed just days before a decision was due to be made.

Health bosses revealed potential plans to relocate services at the 150-year-old St Peter’s Hospital in Maldon earlier this year.

A meeting was due to be held in just under two weeks following a large consultation.

However, the NHS Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board (MSEICB) has announced a six-month delay in the final decision.

Bosses say the decision aims to allow further engagement to “ensure the final decision is fully informed and aligns with the needs of the local population”.

Tom Abell, chief executive officer of MSEICB, 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 proposals outline moving the midwife-led birthing unit from St Peter’s to Braintree Community Hospital.

Plans to move all other patient services at St Peter’s to other locations, mostly in and around Maldon, are also outlined.

Following a large public consultation held from January to April there was “widespread objection” to the plans.

A special decision-making board meeting was due to be held on September 30 but will now be postponed enabling a working group to complete its review before recommending a decision. 

The independently chaired group, which will begin in the coming weeks, will be established to support looking at “viable options in detail”, the trust said, which includes the long-term future of services provided at St Peter’s.  

It will also ensure the final decision reflects a “broad range of perspectives”.

This group will include representatives from the NHS, local authorities, community organisations, and key stakeholders.  

The delay means there will be no immediate changes to the existing provision of community hospital beds, midwife-led birthing or ambulatory care services.