THE Welsh Government has announced it will provide funding for new health centre schemes in Aberaeron, Cardigan and Machynlleth as part of a national programme.

The announcement by health secretary Vaughan Gething has been welcomed by Hywel Dda and Powys health boards who said it would help provide services close to patients.

Aberaeron has been waiting for around 20 years for a new health centre after the idea was first suggested, but failed to come to fruition.

Cardigan Integrated Care Centre has now been given the green light with work on the old Bathhouse site due to start in spring 2018.

The centre is expected to open in late 2019 due to £23.8m funding from the Welsh Government.

As well as providing a modern, fit for purpose healthcare service for the local population including a GP practice, dental service and pharmacy, the new centre will bring care closer to home and in the community.

A wide range of improved integrated health and social care services will be delivered by Hywel Dda UHB, the third sector, local authority and partner organisations.

Elin Jones AM said: “This is welcomed news for Aberaeron and the surrounding area, where people have waited for a long time for a commitment to fund a new health centre. Finally we see progress on this project.

“I look forward now to working with local health providers and the health board to put together the details of this new centre.

“I’m also continuing to support the new Cardigan integrated health centre, which has had its budget approved, and the Cylch Caron project which is nearing final stages.”

The scheme at Machynlleth would see work, including an extension, at Bro Ddyfi Hospital to create a primary and community care hub which would include a range of health services as well as local authority and third sector services.

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