Aberystwyth is set to get its first ever hospice – thanks to the work of charity volunteers.

Proposals to turn a Penparcau hotel into a day hospice have been given the green light.

Aberystwyth-based palliative care charity Hospice at Home Aberystwyth and District Volunteers wants to expand its service and provide a day hospice at the Plas Antaron hotel in Southgate, Penparcau.

That proposal has been backed by Ceredigion County Council’s planning department with a planning application for change of use approved, subject to conditions.

One of the HAHAV founders, Dr Alan Axford, had previously said it had been hoped that work could have begun in September, but with the planning permission only just confirmed that has delayed the time frame.

The day hospice would offer respite for carers, as well as complimentary therapies such as art and music therapy for those being cared for.

There would also be an office and drop-in facility for information and advice.

HAHAV would initially lease the building on a three-year basis, but would be able to buy the property outright during that period.

A council planning officer said there had been no objections to the plan with Plas Antaron having been on the market, but little interest in people taking it over as a hotel, while providing a day hospice would be “welcomed” as an important service in Aberystwyth and north Ceredigion.

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