RESIDENTS of Maldon have reacted following the news that St Peter’s Hospital is facing possible closure.

The Standard reported health bosses were due to meet to decide the hospital’s future, after previously having changes mooted last year.

St Peter’s has already experienced temporary service changes, including transferring the 16 stroke rehabilitation to the Bayman Ward at Brentwood Community Hospital, increasing capacity there to 25 stroke rehabilitation beds.

Now, the hospital could potentially be closed and put up for sale for £6.2million.

Maldon’s MP Sir John Whittingdale said he is “extremely disappointed” by the news the hospital could close permanently.

He added: “The loss of local provision of essential outpatient services such as X-ray, blood tests, diagnostics and physiotherapy is unacceptable unless and until an alternative local site can be found.”

Maldon and Burnham Standard: MP - Sir John WhittingdaleMP - Sir John Whittingdale (Image: N/a)

Meanwhile, residents of Maldon and surrounding areas have also shared their thoughts on the controversial news.

Amanda Jeary said it was “absolutely dreadful” and highlighted the town’s need for the resources provided by St Peter’s.

Susan O’Brien, from Tollesbury, echoed her concerns, and spoke of the convenience her husband had while getting an x-ray at the hospital.

She said: “Surely the St Peter’s Hospital site definitely needs to remain and serve the ever growing Maldon community? 

“Blood tests and consultant appointments and sadly the end of local maternity facilities will be a big loss to Maldon, also considering the lack of GP provision, which a hub at St Peter’s could, with investment, provide."

She added: “I imagine the site will become another site for flats or be demolished.

“Shame on this announcement.”

Derek Wheddon said St Peter’s was a “valuable asset” to the town while Marilyn Cardy-Winyard hoped the “terrible decision” does not happen.

Another resident described the situation as “bad news all around” and “utterly ridiculous”.

They added: “This hospital is four miles from my home, it's easy to drive to, seldom any traffic - easy to park. 

“I've had physiotherapy here, x-rays, blood tests, rheumatology appointments, etc.

“I'm nearly 70 and I live on my own.

“What am I supposed to do now - drive 15 miles to Broomfield, get stuck in traffic, struggle to find a parking space and pay for the privilege?”