PATIENCE is wearing thin over the long wait for a new health centre.

Plans have been in place for more than a decade for a new facility to be built in Buckley.

But work has yet to start on the intended site at the former Ysgol Belmont on Mill Lane.

Thousands of patients would move from the current premises on Padeswood Avenue, which has been branded outdated.

Now concerned councillors who have seen neighbouring towns such as Connah’s Quay and Mold make progress with their own health centres have stepped up their bid for action.

Buckley Bistre West councillor Ron Hampson has written to Assembly Health Minister Lesley Griffiths in the hope the long-running matter can be quickly resolved.

He said: “I am frustrated and disappointed this has gone on for so long.

“The Welsh Assembly announced seven or eight years ago we would be getting this new health centre and it has not materialised.

“We are seeing others opening in the region and yet nothing seems to be happening here.”

Cllr Dennis Hutchinson said: “I am disgusted at how long this matter is dragging on and it needs to be sorted by the concerned parties.

“People are already saying they will not see this facility in their lifetime and it is not good enough.

“A new facility is much needed, the current health centre is outdated.”

Mike Wallace, practice manager of Roseneath Medical Practice, which is based at the current centre along with Bradley’s Practice, said an agreement had been in place since 2008 for a move to Mill Lane, but he was aware of difficulties in reaching a rental agreement.

He said: “The building is not fit for purpose. Disabled access is poor and the fabric of the building is continuing to deteriorate.

“We are regularly having leaks.”

Cllr Carol Ellis said she had raised the matter with health officials.
She said: “I feel the frustration of people on this and hope progress can be made.

“However, I believe it’s in the wrong place and is a long way from the town centre.”
Improved public transport links are likely to be created if the new facility is built.