ASSURANCES have been given about the future of Llandovery Hospital after concerns in the area following a reduction in capacity.

Politicians have intervened following growing concern amongst the public regarding the future of Llandovery Hospital.

In recent months the number of beds at Llandovery Hospital has reduced leaving members of the public concerned for the future of local health services in Llandovery.

Responding to these concerns, Carmarthen East and Dinefwr AM, Adam Price, wrote to Hywel Dda University Health Board to "seek assurance that the hospital is not under threat" and that the hospital "will be adequately resourced in the future".

Plaid Cymru County Councillor for Llandovery, Cllr. Handel Davies, has also raised local concerns directly with the Health Board.

Following the interventions from the local politicians, Hywel Dda has confirmed in writing to Mr. Price that the reduction in bed capacity is a temporary measure having experienced challenges recruiting to registered nursing posts.

Further, in their letter to Mr. Price, the Health Board also emphasised there is no long-term plan to close the hospital - with the hospital remaining of strategic importance to provide services for the local population.

The Health Board also state they are progressing discussions to develop the facility which they believe will ensure the current recruitment challenges are overcome.

Following the assurances from the Hywel Dda, Adam Price AM, said: "A number of constituents contacted me recently having witnessed staff shortages and reduced bed capacity at the hospital.

"I contacted Hywel Dda to seek assurance that the hospital is not under threat and will be adequately resourced in the future.

"In addition, Jonathan Edwards MP and I have sought to meet with the Health Board to discuss both this matter and the wider provision of local health services in Carmarthenshire.

"I welcome the assurance from Hywel Dda regarding the future of Llandovery Hospital and I hope this will provide some relief for local residents. I will continue to make representations to the Health Board that steps are taken to address the reduced capacity issue as swiftly as possible."

Plaid Cymru County Councillor for Llandovery, Handel Davies said: "It is reassuring to hear Hywel Dda reaffirming Llandovery Hospital's strategic importance in providing essential services for the local population, together with confirmation that Hywel Dda will be looking at growing and developing the facility as a vibrant and critical asset to deliver care closer to the community in the future.

"It is vitally important that the number of beds available in Llandovery is restored to maximum capacity as a matter of urgency. It does not make sense to have empty beds in Llandovery hospital given the critical and ongoing demands on beds throughout Hywel Dda.

"With the county council owned Ysgol Rhys Prichard site nearby becoming vacant in Spring 2021, this may well provide a timely opportunity to explore a number of possible options to achieve this objective."