There are mixed feelings on this - and I think what makes you happy at the end of the day (or you can afford) - is up to you.
Im currently expecting and when I went to GP for my first visit (lady). She asked me where I wanted to go, and would it be Private/Public/Semi.
Like anyone expecting their first I hadn't a clue...
She told me she had just had her first herself and said she went semi private... she said she wouldn't bother again... she ended up on the public ward anyway, which was fine.. she also said that at the end of the day - every baby is delivered the same and no difference in the level of care..
I expressed my concern at how long you have to wait for a scan.. she said well go for an early one, private... it will cost you no more than 120 and you can claim 20% back.. and she said if your lucky (which I was) your public consultant may just do one on your first visit - which he did (before the 20 week scan holles street)... so I've had 3 scans now - and all going well...
On my visits to Holles Street as a public patient, I have found the level of care fantastic so far, first visit I was in and out in under 1 hour (filling in forms, weight, bloods, urine samples, meeting consultant, meet mid wive!)... Second visit for scan also under an hour... so I can say all good so far!