Outcry over Chepstow’s minor injuries unit's closure goes on (From South Wales Argus)

Outcry over Chepstow’s minor injuries unit's closure goes on

11:10am Sunday 3rd February 2013 in News

THE public outcry over the closure of Chepstow’s minor injuries unit carries on online, with 278 people signing a petition calling for it to be reopened.

Aneurin Bevan Health Board shut it down in November 2011, with two others in Gwent, on the basis they did not meet minimum standards for a safe and sustainable service.

At the time, Monmouth AM Nick Ramsay called the decision an “utter betrayal” while the community was left shellshocked.

Now those requiring emergency aid have to travel to Abergavenny or Newport.

The petition, requesting the Chepstow Community Hospital be re-opened, began in early 2012 and the signatures are still coming in.

Chepstow town councillors Gerry Rowe, Dale Rooke and Hilary Beach are among those who have backed the cause, alongside other public figures like county-cllrs Tony Easson and Armand Watts.

Community members have also added their support online.

Miss Lynda Payne wrote: “With even more housing built in Chepstow, the strain it is putting on the Royal Gwent Hospital is ludicrous. The minor injuries unit is essential for Chepstow.”

John Powell said: “This unit for the Chepstow area is vital, especially for those who do not have transport to travel as far as Newport and Abergavenny.”

Sarah Price commented: “Living in Caldicot with two children under six, it’s essential to have support nearby if any accidents or emergencies occur.”

Chepstow Town Council is planning to have a copy of the petition at The Gatehouse for people to sign.

The online version can be found at www.ipetitions.com/petition/bring-back-chepstow-minorinjuries-unit/