Anger Grows as Cheltenham Maternity Unit’s Temporary Closure Nears Four Years
Friday, March 13, 2026
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As the fourth anniversary of the temporary closure of the maternity unit at Cheltenham General Hospital approaches, frustration and anger are mounting among local residents. The Aveta birth centre was shuttered in 2022 due to staffing shortages and safety concerns, with no clear plan yet to resume services.
Later that year, the overnight postnatal beds at Stroud General Hospital were also closed and remain unavailable. In November 2023, home births were suspended amid serious concerns about staff safety levels, further limiting options for expectant mothers in the area.