Work has started on a new purpose-built £3.3m medical centre on a regeneration site in the Vale of Neath.
The 1,664 sq m development, which will relocate the Vale of Neath Practice, D.R. Cecil Jones Pharmacy and other health board services, is being delivered by The Healthcare Property Company Wales (HPC Wales).
Bringing all services together under one roof, it will significantly improve the primary care offering to the communities of Glynneath, Cwmgwrach, Pontneddfechan, Ystradfellte, Rhigos, Resolven, Melincourt, Clyne and Abergarwed and has been designed with the flexibility to adapt for future requirements.
As healthcare conditions change and develop, we need the space and facilities to provide appropriate treatment and services, which could not always be possible from the existing practice premises
Senior partner, Dr Paul Westwood, said: “All of the GP partners and staff at the Vale of Neath Practice are delighted to witness the commencement of work on the new health centre, which will undoubtedly be a vast improvement to the facilities we are currently utilising to provide primary care services.
Due to open in 2019, the centre, which is being built on the former Washery Site at Aberpergwm, is supported by the Welsh Government and is being developed in partnership with the Vale of Neath Practice and Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board. It also has the full backing of ABM Community Health Council.The building has been designed by architect Austin-Smith:Lord and will be constructed by John Weaver Contractors to achieve a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating and an ‘Excellent’ rating for energy.
“This development will significantly enhance the health offering for the Vale of Neath”, said Paul Stacey, HPC Wales managing director.
“Our team has carefully considered the requirements of the surgeries, pharmacy and health board to ensure we build a facility that is sustainable and flexible for future use.”
ABMU’s director of primary and community services, Hilary Dover, added: “We are delighted that work is now starting on the site which will provide first-class modern facilities for GP and community healthcare services to meet the needs of residents.
Our team has carefully considered the requirements of the surgeries, pharmacy and health board to ensure we build a facility that is sustainable and flexible for future use
“As healthcare conditions change and develop, we need the space and facilities to provide appropriate treatment and services, which could not always be possible from the existing practice premises.”
And superintendent pharmacy director, Niki Watts, said: “Up-to-date robotic technology will create more time to take up the welcomed widening role of community pharmacies.
“With three consultation rooms we will be able to continue, develop and improve our health services.
“Working under one roof with our health colleagues, we will be able to offer a seamless, efficient and effective holistic service.”
- Companies:
- Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board
- Austin Smith Lord
- Healthcare Property Company Wales
- John Weaver Contractors
