Residents in Cardigan can look forward to seeing some activity on the Bathhouse site as progress is made on Cardigan Integrated Care Project.

At a recent Stakeholder’s meeting, members were pleased to hear that some site based preparatory work – topographical survey and additional geo-technical ground investigation work - would begin in the coming weeks.

Community and Primary Care General Manager for Ceredigion Jina Hawkes said: “This work is an essential component of every construction project to ensure appropriate information is available for the design of sub-structures, drainage and landscaping arrangements such as car parking. Works will include a detailed investigation of the soil, for example, to determine strength, composition, water content and other important characteristics.

“This is really positive news and we hope local residents will be reassured by seeing some activity on the ground, as much of the hard work to-date has been going on behind the scenes and is not visual.”

Members were also informed that work on service modelling and mapping both the population needs, and those of departments that will be accommodated in the new Cardigan healthcare facility, were well underway. It is hoped this work, which will provide the detailed information for architectural and service design, would be complete by the summer.

Cllr Catrin Miles, Cardigan Mayor, representing Cardigan Town Council on the stakeholder board said: “The meeting was really informative and we are pleased to see that progress is being made on what is an extremely important project for the town.”

Stakeholders were given reassurances from Health Board members that the minor injury service at the current Cardigan Hospital, and beds, are included in service modelling work and will have important roles to play in the new development. Links are also being made with end-of-life care providers to ensure this important service continues and in supported in the community.

Meetings are also being held with the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust to explore the opportunities the new build may offer.

The next Stakeholder Meeting is due to be held in June.