Plans for a multi-million-pound “first of its kind” health and wellbeing centre have been unveiled at the site of a former bus depot in Gwynedd.

The former Express Motors site in Penygroes has lain largely empty since the company’s licence was revoked in 2017. It once housed around 80 vehicles and employed 90 people.

But after plans for its demolition were approved by Gwynedd Council, a multi-agency plan has now been revealed to house a modern hub offering access to health, dental, pharmacy and preventative services, social services, care for the elderly, offices, a crèche facility and an arts space all on one site.

With hopes it can be up and running in three years, the project is spearheaded by Gr?p Cynefin housing association, working alongside Gwynedd Council, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and Cwmni Theatr Bara Caws.

The first phase will involve the demolition of the existing buildings.

Gr?p Cynefin chief executive Shan Lloyd Williams said community-based activities will be central to the plan, encouraging activities that bring older and younger people together to socialise.

“There has been tremendous work behind the scenes over the past year to reach this important milestone,” she added.

“Our consultation with the local community to share our vision has been very positive and had strong support from the young people of Penygroes, Llanllyfni, Groeslon, Llanwnda, Talysarn and Fron.

“It is a large-scale scheme that can bring real benefits to Dyffryn Nantlle and Gwynedd, and the fact that the Welsh language and culture forms such a core part of the scheme is vital to the partners and the community that it serves.

“We will now be working on the master planning document as a next step in the development process.”

Gwynedd Council’s deputy leader, Cllr Dafydd Meurig, confirmed the authority had committed funding towards the scheme, describing the plans as a “first of its kind” in North Wales.

He added: “We have agreed to invest £3.5m into the project and look forward to working with partners to secure the full investment.

“With key health services increasingly collaborating on-site such as doctors, dentists and pharmacists – the integrated element of the scheme for the community is important.”

With initial community discussions having already taken place, further consultation is now scheduled.

The Welsh Government has approved an ICF grant to develop the planning process.

Wyn Thomas, assistant area director of primary care for Betsi Cadwaladr, said: “Bringing services and care closer to people’s homes is a central part of the health board’s vision.

“This development will provide a focal point for primary care and community-based health services in the area, as well as services from our partner organisations, all under one roof.”

“We look forward to developing more detailed plans over the coming months,” Mr Thomas added.