Councillors have expressed their anger over the on-going closure of Bishop’s Castle Hospital.

The site was closed in October by Shropshire Community Health Trust amid a staff shortage.

Cllr Ruth Houghton (Bishop's Castle - Liberal Democrats) said: “The future of the hospital is of serious concern to residents across our area.

"Last May we were elected by our residents to express their views and concerns on issues just like this.

“The Trust need to realise just how angry people are about this threat to our much-valued community hospital."

Councillors have raised concerns about its re-opening, range of outpatient services, and staff recruitment.

Clun councillor Nigel Hartin concluded: “As usual the rural areas of Shropshire are being taken for granted again. If this hospital were to close it would mean a great deal of hardship for patients and families like having to travel to hospitals in urban areas. We already have much poorer access to health services across south-west Shropshire.”

Patricia Davies, Chief Executive of Shropshire Community NHS Trust, said: “The decision to close Bishop’s Castle Hospital was based on significant patient and staff safety concerns, in that, despite many campaigns, we had been unable to recruit permanent clinical staff; this is a national issue, not just for Shropshire.

"Our staff shortages have still not been resolved and indeed have been exacerbated by the pandemic and vaccination campaign, which has drawn upon many of our resources.

“Along with our integrated care colleagues, we are fully committed to the health and social needs of our communities.  Nothing permanent has been decided and our intent is to widely consult on future services. I welcome the opportunity to talk through these issues with the Shropshire Councillors.”