A Cumbrian MP said the NHS trust in charge of mental health must convince him and the community that services will improve in West Cumbria.
Josh MacAlister, who represents Whitehaven & Workington, said he was not yet confident that plans by the Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust to change mental health services in Cumbria.
The trust said recruitment issues, its isolation in relation to the Carleton Clinic in Carlisle and the ‘deteriorating building’ made Yewdale ward not fit for purpose.
it has launched a consultation to ask for people’s views.
Mr MacAlister said: “Mental health services in West Cumbria need to be significantly improved.
“I have spoken twice with the CEO of the mental health trust and I have been clear that any changes to Yewdale ward must result in a better service for patients.
“I am yet to see any detailed plans which give me confidence that the proposed closure would improve services.
“Unless the trust can convince me and the community that changes will improve access to mental health services for West Cumbrians I will oppose the closure.”
A group has been set up on social media platform Facebook to oppose the plans.
