MALDON residents reacted angrily to news the town’s new health hub may not have beds or inpatient services.

Tony Harper, 67, of Highlands Drive, said: “It is ridiculous. I would far rather keep what we have now.

“You can’t get rid of it and then not replace it with what we obviously need. That is disgusting. It is penny pinching.”

Sarah Miston, 34, added: “How can you get rid of St Peter’s and not have somewhere with beds? It is hard enough getting doctors appointments down here at the moment, why are they making it more difficult? I would be extremely annoyed if this new place has no beds and no hospital services.”

Gary Hutchinson, 44, of Eliot Way, praised St Peter’s for the help they gave his dad, but admitted he felt it needed to be changed.

He said: “I have never needed St Peter’s myself thankfully. My dad was there a few years back and they were great with him, but I can see why they need to freshen it up.

“I would like to think they can find a way to replace it whilst keeping the same facilities though.”

Jennifer Turner, 29, of Fitches Crescent, was more supportive of the plans.

She said: “You always want this stuff but it isn’t always possible They are not intentionally going to leave us without. If they can do it, I am sure they will.”