The Cheltenham maternity unit will continue to remain closed despite a significant increase in midwife staffing across the county. Since the closure of the Aveta Birth Centre in 2022, local health services have recruited the equivalent of 25 full-time midwives to support maternity care. However, this boost in staffing has not led to the reopening of the Cheltenham facility, which remains closed due to ongoing operational challenges.
Healthcare officials have emphasized that while the increased number of midwives strengthens maternity services overall, the closure of the Cheltenham unit is driven by wider factors, including the need to ensure safe and sustainable care. The decision to keep the facility closed reflects a commitment to maintaining high standards for mothers and babies throughout the region.
Residents and expectant mothers in Cheltenham continue to receive maternity care at alternative centres nearby, with health authorities monitoring the situation closely. Future decisions about reopening the Cheltenham unit will depend on service demand, staffing stability, and quality of care considerations.