Anger at mental health scheme

Apr 17 2008 by Andrew Harrison, Glamorgan Gazette

A MENTAL health rehabilitation centre for patients no longer needing full-time hospital treatment could be built near Bridgend town centre.

The Bro Morgannwg NHS Trust proposal would mean demolition on land behind 71 Quarella Road, known as the Beeches, and the construction of two rehabilitation units.

The site is near Llys Faen, a sheltered housing complex for the elderly.

Labour Party election candidate and deputy town mayor Haydn Morgan expressed anger at the location.

“I want to know why every controversial development has to go in the Morfa ward?” he said.

“We have Vesta Court on Coity Road, we are getting a mental health clinic on the corner of Quarella Road and Mackworth Street and now this.”

Borough chairman of the Shout over-50s forum, Jim McFetrich, who also lives on Quarella Road, said he would be calling a meeting with members and residents to discuss the trust’s plans.

And Morfa ward councillor Peter Foley said he would be looking at the proposals closely before Bridgend County Borough Council’s planning and development committee considers the application.

“I am aware of the considerable concern by the residents over this development,” said Coun Foley.

“I have asked the planning department to obtain more information from the trust concerning the type of residents who would be accommodated.”

A Bro Morgannwg NHS Trust spokeswoman said: “The proposed scheme is part of the modernisation of mental health services in Bridgend.

“Twenty-first century mental health services aim to provide care based on an individual’s assessment of need in purpose designed community units as close to home as possible.

“It is proposed that the site will be used to provide accommodation for service users who no longer require in-patient hospital care but still need assistance in developing independence and daily living skills.

“The aim is to provide a therapeutic and homely environment encouraging meaningful and purposeful activities that will support recovery so clients are able to return home as soon as possible.

“Subject to approval, plans are in place to make a start on site later this year.

“Staff currently based on the site will be moving to alternative accommodation.”