MATERNITY campaigners have criticised on-demand centres for failing to give new mums the care they need.

Harwich maternity campaigner Jenny Semple said any decisions about the future of midwifery should take into account the rising population, including Tendring Council’s remit of building 12,000 now homes in the district by 2031.

She spoke out after a new report said low birthing figures at Harwich and Clacton meant it didn't justify being a 24/7 unit.

“I would prefer it to be a midwife-led unit, especially with the Harwich Valley development and all these extra houses we are set to get," she said.

“We have lots of other developments and housing, which will bring lots more people in who will need the extra facilities."

The future of maternity care at the coastal units is going out to consultation next month.

Currently they are both run as on-demand centres.