Plans have been put forward to repurpose a vacant former factory building in Neath Port Talbot into a new dialysis centre, as reported by Wales Online. The Swansea Bay University Health Board has submitted proposals to the local council to partially demolish Stationary House in Acacia Avenue, Sandfields, and construct a modern dialysis facility in its place. This initiative is part of a £70m investment in renal services in south Wales, which includes the construction of another dialysis centre in Bridgend.
Currently, renal services are overseen by Swansea Bay University Health Board for individuals in its region as well as those in the Hywel Dda and Cwm Taf Morgannwg health board areas. However, there is a recognised need for additional dialysis units to cater to the Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend areas. If approved, the plans also encompass provisions for parking facilities and landscaping enhancements, with a target completion date of August 2025. The primary objective of the development is to alleviate strain on Morriston Hospital and enable patients to receive treatment closer to their residences.
Dr. Clare Parker, the clinical director for renal services in south west Wales at Swansea Bay, expressed, “Assuming the plans, which also include car park and landscaping work, are approved it is hoped the centre will be ready by next August. It will feature 27 stations with a maximum capacity of 108 patients. It will also have a training area for nurses who teach people to dialyse at home.” A community consultation was conducted as part of the planning process, and the submission is now under consideration by Neath Port Talbot Council.
Should permission be granted, construction is anticipated to commence later this year, with completion slated for August of the following year. Dr. Parker highlighted the potential benefits of the project, noting, “We believe this will be a positive development and not only for patients who will be able to dialyse closer to home. It will bring new life to a currently-derelict site and create new employment in the area.”
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