Broch SNP Councillor Urges Response To Maternity Consultation

Fraserburgh & District SNP councillor Brian Topping was at the forefront of the campaign to secure the future of the town's birthing unit in 2006/07, getting unanimous backing from all parties on Aberdeenshire Council for his efforts.

Commenting on the consultation announced by NHS Grampian on the future of maternity services in Fraserburgh, he said:

"Fraserburgh is the only town in Scotland with a population of over 10,000 people which is more than one hour from an acute services hospital. We need to maintain the services we have locally in Fraserburgh for expectant mothers so I'm concerned that this issue has been opened up once again.

“There was a tremendous community-led campaign last time which I was proud to play a part in and the views of the community will once again be vital in going forward. I would urge everyone to respond to the NHS Grampian consultation. It is not helpful for people to say that ‘minds are already made up’ on this issue as that is simply self-defeating.

“In the meantime, I hope to meet with senior NHS officials in the coming week to discuss the matter."