LAST week the Argus rightly reported that consideration of plans for Cwmbran’s Specialist and Critical Care Centre (SCCC) has been paused to allow consultation on the South Wales Programme to run its course (May 23, Critical Care Unit Decision Delayed).


However, the fact that the SCCC features in all four options for hospital configuration within the South Wales Programme consultation is hugely reassuring and very welcome news, as is the recent written confirmation from NHS Wales chief David Sissling of the project’s place in the Welsh Government’s forward capital programme.
Cwmbran’s Critical Care Centre will represent the biggest investment in the NHS locally for generations, transforming the delivery of healthcare not just for Torfaen, but for residents across the Gwent region.
Not least because of swingeing capital cuts imposed by Westminster, bringing the SCCC to fruition has been a long, and at times, arduous journey, and I understand and share the frustration at the length of time it’s taken to reach this point. But make no mistake about it, last week’s announcement was excellent newsr.
Lynne Neagle AM
Assembly Member for Torfaen