Montrose Infirmary closure prompts call for new purpose-built facility in Angus

Montrose and Brechin would be best served by a purpose-built infirmary, it has been claimed.

Councillor David May, the Liberal Democrat elected member for Montrose, believes a new centre at Townhead Medical Practice should replace Brechin Infirmary and Montrose Royal Infirmary.

The claim follows the temporary closure of the Montrose hospital due to the failure of the heating and water systems.

Mr May said: “A new infirmary would significantly improve health services in both Montrose and Brechin. In order to improve facilities in the area, a one-site option is the best idea.

“The current health centre is close to the town centre so it would be ideal for a new infirmary.

“I want to set up a consultation with people from both Montrose and Brechin to discuss new possibilities.”

The infirmary and maternity unit on Bridge Street has now been closed for four weeks. The breakdown forced NHS Tayside to transfer six inpatients to Brechin Infirmary.

An NHS Tayside spokeswoman said: “It is anticipated that patients will be unable to return to the hospital until we are satisfied the environment is safe for both patients and staff.”