NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board has made the decision to stop commissioning births at Rossendale Birth Centre from 31 December 2026. It follows a decline in the number of babies being born there, with just four women giving birth in the last two years.
Given the very low level of use, continuing to commission birthing services at the centre is no longer considered a proportionate or financially sustainable use of public resources.
It is important to note that despite the birthing suites no longer being used, ante-natal and post-natal care will remain at the site in Rawtenstall, as well as a range of other services that are also provided within the health centre – known locally as ‘the hub’.
Parents will still be able to choose from a range of other maternity services provided by ELHT, such as:
A home birth in Rossendale with midwives from the same team who supported parents at the birth centre.
• Giving birth at Blackburn Birth Centre.
• Giving birth at Burnley Birth Centre.
• Attending Lancashire Women and Newborn Centre in Burnley General Teaching Hospital, where around 6,500 babies are born each year.
We would like to understand what this change may mean for women, families and local people, and whether there are any issues we need to consider. Your feedback will be reviewed to help identify any issues, concerns or information needs linked to this change, and to support clear communication with women, families and local communities