ANEURIN Bevan Health Board is coming under heavy critcism after announcing the closure of three minor injuries units.

The health board said last week following a review that the minor injury facilities at Pontypool’s County Hospital, Monnow Vale in Monmouth and Chepstow Hospital will close.

The review, held last year, revealed concerns about access, staffing and whether there was sufficient demand to enable staff to maintain the required skill levels.

A recent health board report also found the three units posed “unacceptable risks” to patient safety and “clinical outcomes.”

Patients will be expected to use minor injuries facilities at the Royal Gwent Hospital, Newport, and Nevill Hall Hospital in Abergavenny.

Those living in Chepstow condemned the decision, arguing that the health board failed to undertake any formal consultation with the public or Monmouthshire County Council.

Councillors Armand Watts and Jacqui Sullivan, who represent Chepstow, both claimed they knew nothing of the decision until last week and had not been consulted by the health board.

Chepstow resident Simon Merrick said: “The Royal Gwent Hospital is creaking at the seams because of the volume of patients whom, in a lot of cases could and should be seen in Chepstow.”

And Pontypool Community Council has written to health board chief executive, Dr Andrew Goodhall, outlining members’ concerns, including travel costs.

Cllr Cynthia Beynon, Torfaen’s health, social care and well-being executive member, said: “The council will work with partners and colleagues atABHBto deliver community-focused services, so that minor injuries will be treated with the right service, in the right place, at the right time.”