The intensive psychiatric care unit at Argyll and Bute Hospital has been temporarily closed to new admissions.

The decision follows a recent review of inpatient mental health services within Argyll and Bute, and despite the closure to new admissions, Succoth Ward in Lochgilphead will not be affected, and will remain open to new admissions.

Dr Michael Hall, medical director for Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “We recently carried out a review of inpatient mental health services within Argyll and Bute Hospital and a number of challenges were identified, including the provision of a safe care environment and the availability of trained nursing staff.

“The Intensive Psychiatric Care Unit within the hospital has therefore been temporarily closed to new admissions but it can still be used on an interim basis as a place of safety for up to 72 hours to allow patients to be clinically assessed.

“If patients require a more prolonged period of intensive care treatment they will be transferred to an appropriate facility out with Argyll and Bute. In reaching this decision patient safety and wellbeing have been our priority.”

Dr Hall also stated that it was still the partnership's intention to continue with plans to relocate inpatient mental health services from Argyll and Bute Hospital to the lower ground floor of Mid Argyll Community Hospital and Integrated Care Centre.

He added: “This requires some alteration works to ensure the area meets the necessary requirements and it is anticipated that this work will be completed by December 2016.

“This planned relocation is an interim measure pending further engagement prior to a final decision about where the service will be provided in the longer term.”

The change should not impact anyone in Helensburgh and Lomond as patients are already directed to hospitals within NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.