CAMPAIGNERS fighting to keep medical services in Maldon have called for “accountability” from health bosses.

A public consultation on the proposed closure of 150-year-old St Peter’s Hospital, in Spital Road, concludes at midnight on Thursday, April 11.

The consultation, which began on January 25, includes proposals for stroke rehabilitation beds and St Peter’s midwife-led birthing unit being permanently removed from Maldon.

In addition, the proposals, if approved, would see other services provided at St Peter’s moved elsewhere around Maldon as well as in Braintree.

Having originally been due to end on March 21, the consultation period was later extended by two weeks.

Campaign group Save Maldon’s Medical Services’ efforts during the consultation include speaking at a town hall meeting and holding a vigil outside St Peter’s Hospital. 

Female members also 'stripped down' in protest, covering themselves with placards spelling out their message.

It read: "How dare you strip us bare of medical services. We need our St Peter's to remain open forever."

A spokesman from the group claims the consultation failed to reach individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds and demographics, including older and disabled people.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Gathering - Around 700 people attended the vigil at St Peter's HospitalGathering - Around 700 people attended the vigil at St Peter's Hospital (Image: Save Maldon's Medical Services)The spokesman said: “They needed the opportunity to voice their opinions and contribute to shaping the future of healthcare provision in the Maldon district. 

The spokesman described surveys, town hall meetings and online forums as "limited methods" to facilitate meaningful dialogue and gather a full view of the public's opinion of the proposals.

Group member Steve Rogers, a retired engineer who lives close to St Peter’s, has been a particular outspoken voice during the public consultation period.

Mr Rogers said: “We hope the input that residents have made to the consultation process will play a crucial role in informing the decision-making of the NHS and shaping the direction of healthcare delivery in the Maldon district.” 

He reiterated a need for an emphasis on "transparency and accountability", as well as rigorous analysis of the consultation data.

Mr Rogers said: “After 30 years of promising new medical services in Maldon, the residents of the district deserve their feedback to drive positive change in the healthcare system for now and in the future.” 

The group is also calling for Mid and South Essex ICB to provide detailed data from the consultation using Freedom of Information requests.