Maldon's MP has expressed concern that if progress is not made with plans for a new community hospital soon, St Peter’s will fail a future inspection.

The hospital is prone to flooding during rain and, built in 1874 as a workhouse, has been repaired many times leading to concerns about asbestos in the fabric of the building.

John Whittingdale, MP for Maldon, said: “I think most people recognise that the building is not really appropriate for a modern day hospital which is why we spent this time discussing how to replace it.

“There must be concerns that unless a conclusion is found soon, then it will not pass the next inspection.”