Experts say the loss of a drug rehabilitation centre in Cape Breton six months ago has highlighted a troublesome gap in services for addicts.

Linda Courey, director of mental health and addiction services with the Cape Breton District Health Authority, says needs are not being met in the region.

Talbot House, an 18-bed facility for men in Frenchvale, closed unexpectedly in March during a review by the provincial government.

Former resident Brian Miles says he found it comforting to return to Talbot House and walk the grounds despite being clean for three years.

The 31-year-old says the closure has left him fearful of what could happen if he found himself struggling to stay clean.

Reverend Paul Abbass, the facility’s former executive director, says the loss of Talbot House has left a “huge hole” in the province.

The government issued a request for proposals earlier this month to organizations interested in operating addictions services in Cape Breton.