Cotswold Maternity Unit in Chipping Norton has been put to closure by Oxford University NHS Trust for an inquest into working practice concerns, a recent report has unveiled. However, the halt is not on a permanent basis, head of midwifery Jane Herve has told.

It is being said that by her that as part of the investigation, the fall in the count of births at the unit would be noticed. Alongside, superfluous number of women being referred to consultant-led units would also be looked at so that comparison could be made with previous years' figures.

Though, Ruth Smith, who had delivered a child at the Cotswold maternity unit, is of the opinion that the shut is a thing of indignity. Also, Mrs. Smith has given birth to a second baby in the unit's birthing pool in August; she is amazed at the closure decision. "That's a real shame because people value it so much", she said.

But, Ms. Herve says that not one, but many other issues are in need of proper explanations. She further adds that there is no question over management system. Working practices surely need to be reviewed; therefore, women would be treated at alternative hospitals in the meanwhile.