Patients to help shape plans for new Cefn Mawr health centre, says Ken Skates AM

News that public consultation will soon begin on improved health services for Cefn Mawr has been welcomed by campaigners and community leaders.

Senior executives from Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board recently met local councillors Derek Wright and Ken Bathers, as well as Assembly Member Ken Skates, to discuss plans for developing a new Cefn Mawr health centre.

A stakeholder workshop will be held by the end of April, inviting residents to share their views on what the new facility should deliver. This will be followed by rapid work to build up a business case for a new health centre.

If all goes to plan, it is hoped final proposals could be approved in around 12 months.

County councillor Derek Wright said: “This is a fantastic step forward and will provide residents with a formal opportunity in April to contribute to the proposals. A draft service provision will be produced the following month, with a second workshop in May. This is quick, decisive work from the health board, which I applaud. I’m delighted.”

Chairman of Cefn Community Council, Ken Bathers, added: “Residents in Cefn Mawr have identified the need for a new health centre as their top priority and I am pleased the health board is responding positively. We can now look forward to seeing some exciting progress in the coming months.”

A number of possible sites have been suggested for the new centre, with further scoping work being carried out before a decision is taken on where it should be.

Clwyd South AM Mr Skates launched a petition for a new health centre in late 2015 which gathered around 2,000 signatures. He said: “It is clear that the health board shares our determination to improve services for Cefn Mawr and I am delighted by the publication of the development timeline.

“This is an exciting time for the community and I look forward to the workshop next month, where I know a good number of residents will be present with great ideas.”