A petition has been launched in Taunton urging authorities to expedite the construction of a new maternity unit, as the current facilities at Musgrove Park Hospital face criticism for their poor state.
Musgrove Park Hospital’s maternity unit, nearly 80 years old, is described by Somerset NHS Foundation Trust as ‘not fit for purpose.’ Though plans are in place to build a replacement, construction is not expected to begin until 2033-a timeline many consider far too distant.
Concerns about the hospital’s condition grew after an incident earlier this year where a newborn was placed in a ward affected by mould. The trust apologised and assured that staff acted immediately after the problem was identified.
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Gideon Amos, MP for Taunton and Wellington, highlighted the facility’s shortcomings, noting that the buildings were originally constructed as temporary structures for the United States Army during the Second World War and have never been replaced.
He stated, “The recent National Maternity and Neonatal Investigation revealed serious issues such as leaking roofs and inadequate temperature controls. Musgrove Park’s maternity facilities were judged the worst in the region, if not the country. A birthing centre was even recently closed due to a rat infestation.”
Mr Amos further commented, “Attempting to enhance services within these ageing and unsuitable buildings significantly hampers progress in providing the care mothers and babies deserve.”
The local maternity services have been under further strain, with births suspended at North Devon District Hospital and Yeovil’s maternity ward having faced a year-long closure before reopening in April. Some patients from these areas may be redirected to Musgrove Park, adding to the pressure.
Addressing the broader situation, Mr Amos remarked, “There is a clear crisis in maternity care, encompassing staffing shortages and inadequate facilities. The volume of messages from concerned staff and patients is deeply worrying. This is not about assigning blame but about demanding urgent action from our new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, and Health Secretary, Yvette Cooper. Both staff and patients deserve better.”
The MP has called on Health Secretary Yvette Cooper to meet with him, citing a prior commitment from her predecessor Wes Streeting. “I urge you to honour this promise and engage with us on plans to advance this much-needed project. I also invite you to visit the unit personally to understand the challenges faced.”
The National Maternity and Neonatal Review, published in June and led by Baroness Amos, evaluated the conditions at twelve NHS trusts, including Somerset. It found significant issues at Musgrove Park Hospital, such as leaking roofs, unstable ceiling supports, and poor climate control within patient rooms.
A spokesperson for Somerset NHS Foundation Trust acknowledged disappointment over delays in funding for new hospital construction. “Last year, we learned that investment through the New Hospitals Programme has been postponed, with construction now slated for 2033.”
The trust affirmed ongoing efforts to work with the Department of Health and Social Care to secure investment for upgrading the oldest buildings on the site to modern standards. They highlighted maintenance programmes aimed at ensuring continued quality care despite challenging infrastructure, especially during heavy rain.
The Health Secretary has been contacted for comment. The petition advocating for earlier development of the maternity unit is available for public support online.