Essex County Hospital could become a prime target for arsonists once it closes, residents fear.
The hospital, in Lexden Road, Colchester, will shut next summer after its final services are transferred to Colchester General Hospital.
But the long-term future of the 184,000 sq ft site remains uncertain, with hospital bosses aiming to finalise its sale in the next six months.
About 100 residents attended a meeting at Colchester Royal Grammar School to hear from Colchester Hospital University NHS Trust bosses.
Concerns were raised about the lack of round-the-clock security once the hospital closes. From November 10 onwards, the hospital will be open from 8am to 6pm weekdays.
But it is anticipated security staff will only be on site from 9am to 9pm.
Residents pointed to the fact St Mary’s Hospital and Severalls Hospital, which both closed in the Nineties, suffered arson attacks while they were empty.
Full story in Monday's Daily Gazette
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