Plans for a multi-million pound Gwent super-hospital appear to have been kicked into the long grass by the Welsh Government, according to a local MP.
David Davies has previously called for clarity over the future of the proposed Specialist and Critical Care Centre (SCCC) on the site of the former Llanfrechfa Grange Hospital near Cwmbran.
But he said a ‘jargon-filled’ letter received from Health Secretary Vaughan Gething failed to supply answers – and even suggested the £350m project may not go ahead.
“All I’ve been told is that the proposal was examined over the summer,” said Mr Davies.
“Unfortunately, there is a steadfast refusal to disclose further details as to what recommendations, if any, have been made.
“The SCCC was first mooted in 2003. Plans were given the green light by then Health Minister Edwina Hart in a blaze of publicity just before the 2011 Welsh Assembly elections.
“Nothing much has happened since and we are none the wiser as to whether the new hospital will ever be built.
“This ongoing secrecy and complete lack of transparency is a real cause for concern. Indeed, I get the feeling something important is being withheld.”
In his letter, Vaughan Gething AM said: “Given the size and the significance of the SCCC investment, the proposal needs to evidence a robust case in terms of meeting the Welsh Government investment criteria in terms of health gain, clinical and skills sustainability, equity, affordability and value for money.
“An independent review was undertaken over the summer to consider the progress of the scrutiny process and, if appropriate, to identify any further actions that would best support the development of the overall Clinical Futures Service Strategy and the case for the SCCC.”
Mr Davies said he would be now be making a Freedom of Information request to ascertain what is delaying approval of Aneurin Bevan University Health Board’s final business case, which was submitted to the Welsh Government last October.
“As the Health Secretary is unwilling to answer straightforward questions, I will have to resort to other means to try and find out what ministers are going to do to support the health needs of residents across Monmouthshire and the rest of south east Wales,” added the Monmouth MP.