Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

A press release from WC.

Update on the temporary closure of Trowbridge Birthing Centre by Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

As you will be aware on 5th July 2013 Great Western Hospital, the provider of community maternity services in Wiltshire notified the Council and other partners of its decision to temporarily close Trowbridge Birthing Centre.

Great Western Hospital's lack of consultation with Wiltshire Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee in the run up to this decision being made has understandably caused anxiety within the local community.

To ensure lessons are learnt and that the views of Wiltshire Council have been articulated I have now met with both Stephen Rowlands, Chair of Wiltshire CCG and Nerissa Vaughan, Chief Executive of GWH to discuss the situation.

I have received confirmation from GWH that this closure is temporary - with the services at Trowbridge to reopen on 30th September – and have been further assured that robust plans are in place to ensure this happens. I have asked Great Western Hospital to provide an update on their progress towards reopening at the next Health and Wellbeing Board scheduled for 12th September.

Jane Scott, Leader of the Council.