PATIENT groups fear Home First will not be “adequate” care for the Maldon district, as the promise of a Maldon hospital fades away.

Trevor Fernandes, chairman of Blackwater Patient Group, said he was “extremely disappointed” with CCG’s plans.

He said: “This will mean a lower cost facility with a smaller footprint and reduced functionality.

“We believe this model is a concept and we await to see examples where it is done in other representative communities with similar demographics and have asked for evidence of the benefits.”

Speaking at a full council meeting on Thursday, councillor Brian Beale expressed his concerns.

He said: “I was very disappointed to read about the ongoing problems with the planned health hub.

“I ask what we are going to do to find out all the information we need to get this issue moving forward. I feel it is our duty as the district council to ensure the health hub is delivered.”

Deputy leader of the council, Adrian Fluker, responded: “I am as frustrated as others with the constant delays we’re facing.

“We have our chief executive, Fiona Marshall, in many meetings with the CCG, and as frustrating as the situation is, I am satisfied she is doing all she can to bring the project forward.”